National charities that support people after workplace accidents

Updated: 4 Oct, 2025
By Chris Salmon

Recovering from a workplace accident can involve more than medical treatment. Many people face financial hardship, emotional trauma and long-term care needs. Several national UK charities provide free advice, financial support and rehabilitation services to help injured workers and their families.

At a glance

  • National charities provide financial, emotional and practical support after a workplace accident.
  • Services may include grants, counselling, rehabilitation and legal guidance.
  • Support is usually free and available across the UK.
  • Many charities also campaign for better workplace safety and workers’ rights.

Key national charities offering support

  • Citizens Advice: Offers free, impartial guidance on benefits, debt, employment rights and housing after an accident. Visit Citizens Advice.
  • Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA): Provides resources on accident prevention and post-accident support. More at RoSPA.
  • Cruse Bereavement Support: Helps families coping with bereavement after fatal workplace accidents. See Cruse Bereavement Support.
  • Headway: Supports people living with brain injuries and their families, offering rehabilitation and advocacy. Learn more at Headway.
  • Back Up Trust: Provides support, peer mentoring and activity programmes for people with spinal cord injuries. Visit Back Up Trust.
  • Turn2us: Offers financial support and grants for people facing hardship after an accident. See Turn2us.

Don't struggle alone. Speak to charities for mental health, money advice or equipment. Keep letters and receipts. Getting the right support helps recovery and strengthens a claim.

Chris Salmon

Commercial Director
Work Accident Advice Centre

What type of help is available?

Depending on the charity, support may include:

  • Grants to cover emergency expenses or essential household costs.
  • Counselling and therapy for trauma, anxiety or bereavement.
  • Rehabilitation programmes and support groups for ongoing conditions.
  • Help with applying for benefits such as Statutory Sick Pay or Universal Credit.
  • Practical advice on managing debt and accessing community support services.

Real-world example

A construction worker suffered a spinal injury after a fall. Unable to return to work, he faced significant financial pressure. With the help of Turn2us, he accessed a grant to cover rent and bills. The Back Up Trust then connected him with a mentor who had experienced a similar injury, helping him adapt to his new circumstances and maintain independence.

How to access support

Most charities allow you to contact them directly through helplines or online forms. You usually do not need a referral from a doctor or solicitor. In many cases, charities work alongside the NHS, social services and legal professionals to provide joined-up support.

If you are recovering from an accident and unsure where to start, contacting Citizens Advice is often a good first step. They can help you understand your rights and signpost you to other organisations for more specific support.

Call now for free specialist advice

We'll put you straight through to an experienced work injury advisor:

  • Advice that's right for your case
  • Check if you can claim
  • No Win, No Fee explained clearly

If you decide to make a compensation claim, we'll connect you with the right solicitor.

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Work Accident Advice Centre (WAAC) a Claims Management Company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Ref number: 835858). Registration is recorded on the FCA website https://register.fca.org.uk/. Calls are confidential and are handled by our partners at National Accident Helpline. Our privacy policy explains how we protect your data.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon