THE CONCUSSION FOUNDATION is a UK-based registered charity (Charity number: 1164229) focused on investigating the long-term effects of concussion, particularly in individuals who have participated in impact sports. Founded on 2 November 2015, the organization seeks to establish whether there is an increased risk of neurological diseases from concussions and to promote research, education, and prevention strategies related to brain injuries[2][3].

Mission and Objectives

The charity’s mission revolves around understanding and mitigating the impact of concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) on athletes, veterans, and the general public. Its goals include funding and collaborating on cutting-edge research into brain trauma, advocating for safer sports practices, and supporting affected individuals and families through education and direct assistance.

Research and Collaboration

The Concussion Foundation partners with various organizations to advance scientific knowledge on concussion and brain injury. Notably, it collaborates with academic institutions such as the University of Oxford and other charities like the Jeff Astle Foundation within the United Kingdom. These collaborations focus on researching traumatic brain injury (TBI), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and CTE in athletes and military veterans.

Their research efforts form part of a broader global initiative, including the Concussion Legacy Project and the Global Brain Bank, which accelerates brain trauma research through partnerships with leading scientists worldwide. This work is instrumental in shaping evolving medical and sports guidelines on concussion management[4].

Support and Advocacy

In addition to research, The Concussion Foundation is dedicated to advocacy for concussion safety and the development of effective prevention protocols. It aims to foster smarter and safer sports environments by providing education and resources to athletes, sports organizations, and the public.

The Foundation supports those affected by concussions and suspected CTE through various programs, including helplines, support networks, and mentorship initiatives, ensuring practical help and hope for patients and families[1].

Governance and Values

Operating transparently and with a commitment to scientific rigor, the Foundation upholds values of respect, kindness, empathy, diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is driven by science and courage in its leadership and continues to push for systemic changes in sports safety and brain health research.

Relation to the Concussion Legacy Foundation

While sharing a similar name and aligned goals, The Concussion Foundation in the UK is connected in mission to the Concussion Legacy Foundation, a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) charity established in 2007 by Robert Cantu, MD, and Chris Nowinski, PhD. This broader organization has been a global leader in concussion and CTE research, education, and advocacy, influencing sports organizations worldwide[1][5].

In summary, THE CONCUSSION FOUNDATION (UK) is a pivotal nonprofit entity advancing research and awareness of concussion-related neurological conditions, promoting safety in sports, and providing support to those impacted within the UK and beyond.

[1] https://concussionfoundation.org [2] https://theconcussionfoundation.org [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5067765/charity-overview [4] https://concussionfoundation.org/en-uk/programs/research/ [5] https://concussionfoundation.org/about/mission-history/