Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day 2025
16 May 2025
New data released today, Friday 16th May 2025, shows that over 4,700 people in the UK sustained or were diagnosed with a spinal cord injury in the past year — a 7% increase from the previous 12 months.
This rise is linked to improved data collection and a growing number of people sustaining injuries later in life. It’s a stark reminder that spinal cord injury can happen to anyone, at any time.
As we mark Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day, it’s important to reflect on the reality behind these numbers. Every two hours, another person’s life in the UK changes forever due to a spinal cord injury. Today, around 105,000 people are living with the effects of spinal cord injury across the country.
At Back Up, we believe that a spinal cord injury should never be a barrier to achieving your ambitions. We provide practical support, expert advice, and vital services for people of all ages and backgrounds. From wheelchair skills training to mentoring and career development, we empower individuals to rebuild confidence, independence, and a sense of purpose after injury. No matter where you are in your journey, Back Up is here to support you every step of the way.
Reflecting on today’s updated figures, our CEO, Abigail Lock, said:
“The rise in spinal cord injuries highlights why our new strategy, Limitless Ambition, is so important. At Back Up, we believe that no one’s aspirations should be limited by injury. We are determined to be there for every single person affected — helping them to thrive, achieve their goals, and live life on their terms. On Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day, we renew our commitment to building a world where people with spinal cord injuries can reach their full potential.”
Today, we also recognise the vital work of our partners — including Aspire, Horatio’s Garden, Regain, Spinal Injuries Association, Spinal Injuries Scotland, Spinal Research, Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research and WheelPower — who work alongside us to support the spinal cord injury community.
On #SCIAD25, join us in raising awareness, sharing stories, and showing your support. Together, we can create a future where everyone affected by spinal cord injury can live a life full of limitless possibilities.
#SCIAD25
