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The Brightwell, incorporating The West of England Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre, offers specialised therapies including physio and hyperbaric plus many other support services. As a charity we rely on fundraising and donations to continue our work. Neuro Physiotherapy Find out more At The Brightwell, we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals living with chronic neurological conditions. With over 40 years of unwavering commitment, we strive to empower our members by providing access to a warm and friendly, non-clinical environment that fosters independence, symptom management, and overall well-being. Our aim is to offer a diverse range of specialised therapies, including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and Neuro-physiotherapy , all delivered by a dedicated team of experts. We embrace innovation with our in-house Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber and a self-generated oxygen supply, ensuring top-tier quality and availability. We believe in inclusivity, offering one-on-one physiotherapy sessions, group activities, and online classes. Our subsidies for Brightwell Members, as well as our open doors to individuals in various stages of recovery, showcase our commitment to accessible care. At the Brightwell, we stand alongside those living with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke, Parkinson’s, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Concussion, Motor Neurone Disease, Functional Neurological Disorders, Long Covid, and Cancer, amongst many others. Our services extend to Specialist Clinics and therapies including our own Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) assessment clinic, counselling, acupuncture, reflexology, remedial massage and aromatherapy, foot health and bladder & bowel clinics. We have members from the Greater Bristol area, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Bath, Wiltshire, South Wales and from all across the South West and the M4 corridor. There are always lots of social events taking place and a huge and varied number of ways to be involved in fundraising and volunteering. We not only welcome new members but also provide a wide array of volunteer opportunities, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Click here to find out how to Become a Member. What is a neurological condition? A neurological condition is defined as a disorder that affects the brain, nervous system or spinal cord and, as these control every single part of your body, problems with them often cause serious consequences. Conditions can appear suddenly, for example a stroke or a brain injury; some, like epilepsy, you are born with; and others develop over time, like multiple sclerosis. They can affect anyone, at any age, of any ethnicity, and at any time in life. Some conditions are incurable, some last a lifetime and, sadly, some are life-threatening, but all of them will impact on a persons quality of life. What causes them? Sadly, no one really knows what triggers or causes most conditions. Some, especially ones that occur suddenly, can be linked to genes, the environment, accidents, injuries or infections. Although research is continuing there is yet to be any consensus on causes and, for most people, there is absolutely nothing they, or their family, could have done to stop them. Our Impact Report for 2024 This is the first time that we have produced an Impact Report in this format and we are delighted with how it gives a great representation of everything that goes on here at The Brightwell. The report is packed full of great images, facts, statistics and information. The report includes sections on Our Story So Far Who We Support Our Therapies A Letter From Our Chair A Letter From Our CEO 2024 In Numbers Fundraising Stories from Our Members Meet Our Volunteers Acknowledgements. Whether you are a New or Existing Member,Volunteer,Member of Staff or Supporter this is an excellent document, offering so much information regarding the Charity, its work and people, operational insights and community. You can view or download a copy of this report by clicking on the image above or click here .. A hardcopy version can be available on request, please call 01454 201686.

We offer a range of physiotherapy options including one-to-one and group sessions. We have an expert team to help and support you to increase mobility and maintain function in our well equipped, fully accessible Centre. Physiotherapy Physiotherapy is our most popular therapy, with over half of our members enjoying the benefits. It is offered five days a week in our well- equipped gym area by qualified and experienced therapists, who have specialist knowledge in treating neurological conditions. Whether you have been newly or recently diagnosed, we offer specialist neurophysiotherapy that will benefit you. Our Physio Team We pride ourselves on offering a friendly yet professional environment where supporting you as an individual is of the utmost importance. Unlike a hospital or clinical situation there is no time limit to the number of sessions you can attend. Many of our physio users have been with us, attending weekly sessions, for many years. What is neurophysiotherapy? Neurophysiotherapy treats people with neurological conditions. These are conditions associated with the central nervous system – the brain, spinal cord and nerves. People with neurological conditions can often have complex problems including: Muscle weakness Stiffness Balance problems Sensory changes. These conditions can have a huge impact on the body’s function, and on day-to-day activities. Neurological disorders and diseases Our physiotherapists see a huge range of disorders and diseases. Some of the more common disorders we see include: Multiple Sclerosis Stroke Guillain barre syndrome Parkinson’s disease Polyneuropathies Motor Neurone Disease Muscular Dystrophy Functional Neurological Disorders What are the benefits of having physio at The Brightwell? We very much focus on you as an individual with your own personal needs being met. These requirements might include maintaining mobility, it is crucial that you remain as active as possible, we understand that this can be a challenge for people with neurological problems, especially when their muscle strength and movement is affected. Through regular physiotherapy, muscles can be exercised in the correct way and so, where possible, mobility is maintained, and the issues associated with a lack of movement can be prevented or addressed. Many of our members have some or all of the following aims: Receiving general advice to them and their support network Maintaining/improving joint mobility Preventing/reducing muscle spasms Maintaining/improving muscle power Maintaining/improving normal patterns of movement Improving/maintaining balance and coordination Reducing/preventing ataxia Maintaining/improving general fitness In addition, physiotherapy can be combined with the other therapies on offer to help ease pain, which can be one of the most difficult symptoms to treat effectively. Our therapists and Centre staff can speak to you about whether a combination of therapies might be right for you. The physiotherapy offered to you will be based on your specific ability. Activities vary from one-to-one or group sessions to exercise classes, gym equipment can also be used, under a therapist’s supervision. All new members to the Centre have a general assessment with a physiotherapist and, if physiotherapy is requested, a discussion will take place between the individual and the therapist as to the most suitable format. Find out more about Becoming a Member. What types of sessions do we offer? One-to-One Sessions One-to-one physiotherapy sessions last 30 minutes and are available for people who have a specific issue that cannot be addressed in a group class, or who do not have the ability to join a group class. Group Exercise Classes Group exercise classes (maximum 7 people) last an hour, with some classes ending with 10-15 minutes of relaxation. These classes are led by our therapists and encourage people to exercise in a way that will be effective for them, as well as providing a fun, sociable environment. Group Therapy Sessions Group therapy (maximum 5 people) also lasts an hour, with smaller groups allowing for more focused attention on specific issues. Online Classes These classes last half an hour and are ideal for those who cannot attend the Centre, work from home, have limited time or other commitments. These take place via Zoom. All types of exercise classes are tailored to varying ability and mobility levels, so that there is something for everyone. Monday Physio Group 12 pm -1 pm with the Physio Team Focus on balance and stability - Improves mobility and upper and lower limb strength. First half of the session - upper limb strengthening. Second half of the session - standing balance and lower limb strengthening Helps to reduce fatigue and improve flexibility and cardiovascular fitness. Dance Group 3 pm – 4 pm with Audrey Fitness for all levels of mobility Movement to music Is fun and active Tuesday Medium Intensity Interval Training via Zoom 8.45 am to 9.15 am with Millie This class is aimed at those members with higher mobility and relatively good balance. Upper Limb, Lower Limb and Core exercises (standing) Mixed exercises to allow for muscle groups to rest Use of weights/dumbbells Interval training - 30 seconds on, 30 seconds rest Wednesday Group Physio 9:30 am-10:30am with the Physio Team Cardiovascular training - muscle endurance and fatigue focused. Moderate intensity aerobic exercises to help reduce fatigue and improve cardiovascular fitness and flexibility. Finishes class with relaxation. Seated Zoom Class 12 pm-12:30pm with Audrey Suitable for upper limb strengthening Strength & power training with the use of dumbbells to increase blood circulation, release endorphins and develop muscle tone and strength. Helps to improve balance so as to avoid injuries. Zoom Exercise Class 12:30pm-1pm with Audrey Suitable for lower limb strengthening. Helps strengthen, maintain mobility and improve balance. Thursday Group Physio 10:15 am-11:15 am with the Physio Team Flexibility training and seated leg and trunk stretches to increase range of motion and reduce spasms and fatigue. Use of rehab equipment to help with fitness and balance. Friday Neuro Yoga/Pilates 10:30 am-11:30 am with Lauren Meaningful and individually tailored Yoga poses and movements to suit the needs of attendees. Followed by relaxation using neurophysiological principles, incorporating visualising and yogic breathing, to support recovery and calm. Suggested Contributions Zoom sessions £60 for 10 sessions, with the contribution to be made in advance, or as part of your regular Standing Order. Dance and Yoga Classes are £9 per session or £60 for a block of 10 sessions if a contribution is made in advance. Group Physio Classes £15 per session In-person classes will take place in the Gym. Zoom Classes will be via a link provided. If you would like to find out more details about any of our therapies, please call 01454 201686. We can then arrange for you to have a personal assessment to ascertain the best option to suit your specific needs. Outstanding Equipment and Facilities We are very fortunate to have an extensive range of specialist equipment in our physio department. This specialist equipment enables our members to receive the best possible solutions from the team at The Brightwell. Take a look at some of the pieces of equipment regulary used by members Outdoor Exercise class Isamar on the Balance Master Jeremy using a Therabike headshot Ruth on a Tilt Table & Saebo Mass Roger using one of the Therabike Mary using the Saebo Mass Liane on theEasy Glide Mark using the Tilt Table Michael using the Saebo Mas

The Brightwell is a charity supporting people to live well with their neurological condition. We receive no government, or NHS, funding and rely upon volunteers and fundraisers so that we can continue to offer our help and support. Contact The Brightwell We are always delighted to hear from you, whether you would like to find out more about the therapies we offer, becoming a member, joining our team as a volunteer or helping with fundraising. Please email us hello@thebrightwell.org.uk or call on 01454 201 686 Please come to see us or call in for a coffee at The Brightwell Cafe. The Brightwell Bradbury House Wheatfield Drive Bradley Stoke Bristol, BS32 9DB power.safe.apron Opening hours Monday 8.30 am - 18.15 pm Tuesday 8.30 am - 17.30 pm Wednesday 8.30 am - 17.30 pm Thursday 8.30 am - 17.00 pm Friday 8.30 am - 16.30 pm How to find us Subscribe to our newsletter • Don’t miss out! First name Last name Email Join Thanks for subscribing!

Come and join Lauren for a fantastic Mind  &  Body Workout every Friday between 10.30 – 11.30 am In this group, exercises will be offered at various levels, allowing you to choose what suits you best. Please note that anyone joining this class should be able to get on and up from the floor without assistance.. This session includes meaningful and individually tailored Yoga poses and movements to suit the needs of attendees.  Followed by relaxation using neurophysiological principles incorporating visualising and yogic breathing, to support recovery and calm.  £9 per session or £60 for a block of 10. To book this or any other class, please call  Reception on 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk To find out more about all the Physiotherapy classes and sessions that we offer, please visit. www.thebrightwell.org.uk/physio

We are delighted to announce the return of Helen Baddon, as one of our Specialist Therapists.   Helen is a  Therapist, Healer & Yoga instructor, with a  BSc (Hons) in Complementary Health, and will be running clinics on Wednesday from 10 am to 2 pm once a month from  5 November.   Some of you may remember Helen as she ran the clinics before departing to grow her family.    Helen will be working alongside Claire Day, who will continue to offer Advanced Clinical Massage treatments every Monday.   Each session is 40 minutes Cost per session will be £45.   To find out more about the Specialist Clinics we offer, please visit www.thebrightwell.org.uk/therapies/specialist-clinics   To book a session with Helen  or any of our clinics, please call 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk

We are delighted to welcome Aaron to the Physiotherapy Team here at The Brightwell. Aaron joined us last month and is already busy seeing lots of members, fitting in with the team and finding out more about what we do here at the Centre. Aaron was born in Chichester, West Sussex. He became interested in learning more about physiotherapy after benefiting from the treatment himself after a tennis injury. Aaron studied Sports Science at College and then applied to the University of the West of England to study Physiotherapy and recently graduated in June 2025. Whilst at Uni, Aaron came to The Brightwell on a placement. We were very impressed with his obvious interest in all aspects of neurophysiotherapy at that time. We were delighted that when we recently advertised a vacancy for a Physiotherapist, Aaron applied and is now part of the team! Aaron has a lot of interests involving sports and plays tennis competitively, and enjoys playing golf and football. Please say hello to Aaron, next time you see him at The Centre. Welcome to the team!