An amputee sits on a simple chair, with a cream coloured background. He wears a walm smile, and blue hawaiian shirt

Giving hope to survivors of life changing injury

Day One Trauma Support
For those who survive a life-changing injury, the road to recovery is long, uncertain and terrifying. Multiple medical teams are in place to treat physical injury, but no-one considers the emotional and practical support that people – both patients and loved ones – desperately need. All too often, people are left to cope on their own. Leading trauma and orthopaedic surgeon Professor Giannoudis, alongside a small group of medical professionals and former patients, set out to change this. Learning from lived experience to treat the person, not just the injury, they give people hope, from day one. We've helped Day One Trauma Support grow from their inception to become a national charity. Encouraging them to ditch the medical jargon, and create a brand that tells the real human story. An identity and messaging platform that not only helps them grow awareness and fundraise, but helps them communicate the need for their services in hospitals and medical centres. This led to growth in national services, awareness and fundraising. But much more importantly, the brand has helped to connect people. Attracting more people with lived experience to share their stories and help others. They are creating an army of supporters, and we'll continue to help them achieve their vital goal of ensuring no-one is left to face this alone.
  • Naming
  • Brand articulation
  • Visual identity
  • Verbal identity
  • Campaign direction
  • Guardianship

Everyone’s major trauma story is unique, with each day of their recovery journey presenting a different challenge and experience. The new identity needed to feel personal, positive and pro-active, with an understanding of how every single moment can be a big victory.

The charity works very closely with those coping with life-changing injuries. We were privileged enough to capture their peer support volunteers as they courageously shared their very personal and honest stories of recovery as part of a therapeutic letter writing project called ‘Dear me’.

Prior to Major Trauma Awareness Week, the campaign launched with an exhibition hosted by Day One patron Martha Lane Fox at the House of Lords. A chance for the volunteers to share their stories at a high profile event and to raise much needed awareness around the serious lack of funding and resources in this area.

Day One speaks in a way that’s encouraging, realistic and ambitious, whether that’s to patients beginning their recovery journey and the loved ones supporting them, or to pioneering healthcare professionals and fabulous fundraisers. Importantly, everyone is given the platform they deserve to share their unique and inspiring stories, helping to nurture an inclusive and supportive community.

Illustration adds some real human charm when photography is limited. It can sensitively tackle distressing topics or add energy to fun fundraising activities. Even simple typographic executions are given the Day One treatment with highlights, underlines and scribbles drawn using a bespoke brush.

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