The Brain Charity has been shortlisted in the Disability category for its innovative Neuro Gym project. This project provides a free, accessible fitness and rehabilitation space designed specifically for people with neurological conditions.

The Charity Awards, which announces its shortlist on May 16th, is the sector’s most highly regarded excellence recognition scheme. This year, it is celebrating its 25th anniversary. An independent panel of sector leaders has judged all 30 shortlisted charities as having demonstrated best practices in leadership and management, from which other organisations can learn.

Launched in 2023 in Liverpool, the Neuro Gym is the only free gym in Merseyside tailored for people living with neurological conditions. With wheelchair-accessible equipment, free physiotherapy, one-to-one support, and inclusive group activities such as boccia, dance and yoga, the gym supports individuals on their rehabilitation journeys in a welcoming and judgement-free environment.

Since inducting its first members in January 2024, the gym has welcomed over 220 people, with 78% reporting improved physical health and 73% reporting improved mental health after just three months. The Neuro Gym also helps combat loneliness and social isolation, while easing pressure on overstretched NHS services, saving an estimated £15,818.40 through physiotherapy provision alone.

Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and a private donor who underwent brain surgery himself, the Neuro Gym was created in response to unaffordable and inaccessible mainstream gyms. It now stands as a national model for inclusive rehabilitation.

Pippa Sargent, CEO of The Brain Charity, said:

“We’re so proud to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. The Neuro Gym represents everything The Brain Charity stands for — empowerment, inclusion and practical, person-centred support. Often, people with neurological conditions have been excluded from fitness and rehabilitation spaces. The Neuro Gym is changing that, and this recognition shows how vital and replicable this service is.”

Pippa, added:

“What makes the Neuro Gym truly special is the people who use it. We work closely with each member to understand their condition and goals, and we’ve seen life-changing progress, from physical improvements to huge boosts in confidence. Being shortlisted is a tribute to every individual who’s walked through our doors, and we hope this inspires more communities to create spaces like ours.”

The 10 category winners, the Overall Award for Excellence recipients and the Daniel Phelan Award for Outstanding Achievement, will be announced at a black-tie dinner on Thursday, 3 July, held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

BBC news presenter Asad Ahmad will host the evening, which will bring together representatives of the shortlisted charities, sector leaders, and celebrity guests.

Matthew Nolan, chief executive of Civil Society Media, which organises the Charity Awards, congratulated The Brain Charity on making the highly-coveted shortlist. He said:

“For a quarter of a century, the Charity Awards have showcased and celebrated the terrific work of UK charities, large and small. At a time when the sector is struggling with higher costs, shrinking donations and ever-increasing demand for its work, it is reassuring and inspiring to see the extent and quality of charitable activity still occurring across the country.

“We offer our heartfelt congratulations to all the charities on this year’s shortlist; we know that times are tough, and you should all be very proud of getting this far. We wish The Brain Charity the best of luck on the night.”

Peter Hugh Smith, chief executive at CCLA, Overall, Partner of the Charity Awards, said:

“Every year, the Charity Awards serve as a moment for the sector to reflect and acknowledge the transformative power of compassion, determination and resilience. The awards amplify the voices of those making a difference, inspiring others to join in creating positive change.

“We’re honoured to renew our role as the Charity Awards’ Overall Partner, championing the remarkable efforts of charities, large and small, right across the UK.”