High Sheriff of Durham gives award to Jan Rock, Stockton

Jan Rock, who set up Matrix Neurological in Stockton, was honoured for her dedication to supporting children and young people with acquired brain injuries.

The award was presented by the High Sheriff of the County Palatine of Durham, Dr Arnab Basu MBE DL, during a visit to Matrix on 23 April.

Dr Basu said: “One of the privileges of this office is the opportunity to recognise service in its many forms, and Jan’s work is an extraordinary example of that.

“After seeing at first-hand how difficult the road can be for children, young people and their families, she turned personal experience into action and created something of lasting value for others facing similar challenges.”

Jan Rock established Matrix Neurological in 2014, four years after her son, Callum, then aged 16, suffered serious multiple trauma injuries, including a severe traumatic brain injury, in a climbing accident.

Her experience of navigating his complex recovery highlighted the lack of specialist support, inspiring her to help other families facing similar challenges.

Through Matrix, Ms Rock and her team deliver community-based support tailored to each child’s needs, while raising awareness of the long-term and often hidden effects of brain injury.

Ms Rock said: “Acquired brain injuries are the biggest cause of death and disability in children and young people in the UK affecting an estimated 500,000 children nationally.

“Sadly, it is the least recognised, least understood and least supported disability post discharge from hospital.”

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Matrix Neurological has developed a specialist programme to help children and young people regain essential cognitive, sensory, communication, emotional and behavioural skills.

Dr Basu, who began his term as High Sheriff in March, is using his year in office to recognise and champion unsung community heroes.

Nominations for future High Sheriff’s awards can be sent to durham@highsheriffs.com.