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Thank you so much for considering making a donation to The Brightwell. We can assure you that every pound donated is used effectively to support our members. Ways that you can donate to The Brightwell Thank you so much for donating to The Brightwell. We very much appreciate your generosity. If your donation is specifically to be used as a contribution towards a named member’s therapy, please let us know by emailing hello@thebrightwell.org.uk We would very much like to invite you to become an active part of our Brightwell community. If you would like to find out more about how to support us, please click on the links below. Support Us Events Volunteer The Brightwell 100 Corporate Network Thank you once again. First name Last name Email Donate in the name of Enter the amount £ Gift Aid my donation View terms of use Subscribe to our Newsletters/Updates Donate Option 1 Use the box below to donate using a debit/credit card, Google Pay or PayPal Option 2 Donate via JustGiving. Click on the image below Option 3 Making a Regular Donation by Standing Order Standing order If you would like to make a regular donation, please download and complete a Standing Order form. Please click on the link below to download. Option 4 Paying by Cash If you wish to make a cash donation, please call into Reception If you are a UK taxpayer, donating through Gift Aid means that we can claim an extra 25p for every £1 you give. It will not cost you any extra. For example if you donate £10 that means that if you are eligible and select to add Gift Aid, The Brightrwell will receive £12.50.This makes a huge difference to us . Thank you. If you have any queries or issues with making your donation please call 01454 201686 Corporate Donations We are delighted to be supported by so many businesses and companies and such donations can be made via our Brightwell 100 Just Giving page Please visit our Brightwell 100 page to see our latest projects and Wishlist. Gift in Will Make a Difference That Lives On Give the gift of therapy, support and friendship by remembering The Brightwell in your Will. Leaving a financial gift to The Brightwell will have a direct and positive impact on those living with chronic neurological conditions. Your gift will enable individuals to be supported by our wonderful Centre. Please visit our Gift in Will page. Thank you. More information... For further inforation about other therapies at The Brightwell, please click on the following links Become a Member Oxygen Therapy Physiotherapy FES Clinic Specialist Clinics Support Us Volunteer Newsletters Click on the logo to sign up to our blog.

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!

The Brightwell London Landmarks Half Marathon 2024 Sunday 7th April 2024 About the Event The event is not your average half marathon! From cultural landmarks and heritage to the city's quirky and hidden secrets, runner get to explore the capital on a route like no other! We were thrilled to share our brand-new route for LLHM 2023. Each year we run a cheer station so you can rest assured we will be there to give you that all important encouragement (and jelly babies) at the 11th mile! The event started on the iconic Pall Mall, before runners took in the sights and sounds of London’s awe-inspiring landmarks, event ually finishing outside Downing Street. If you'd like to know more click here: About The London Landmark Half Marathon | LLHM The Route Run the iconic London Landmarks route acro ss central Lon don . Fundraising When fundraising for The Brightwell we are with you every step of the way. We will send you a fundraising pack and your very own Brightwell vest ready for those all important training pictures for your socials! As a local, independent charity we are so grateful to those who fundraise for us and are always available to give you the support you need to help you reach & exceed your target! Sign up fee £30 Fundraising target: £500 Our team of 5 runners last year raised over £3,500 to ensure our doors are kept firmly open to provide subsidised therapy for life for anyone affected by a neurological condition. Limited spaces available We have managed to secure 5 charity places for this incredible event. If you're up for the challenge click the button below and pop us an email to register your interest in running this event for us, we will then respond with the next steps. We can't wait to hear from you. Sign up NOW! Check out LLHM 2023 Photos

The Brightwell

Throughout the year The Brightwell organises a wide range of social and fundraising events. These events range from social evenings held at the Centre such as Quiz and Bingo Nights, through to large community events such as our Colour Run and Abseil. Come and join in soon! Project01 Project02 Project03 Project04 Project05 Upcoming Events Valentines Quiz Wed 25 Feb Bradley Stoke More info Tickets Bath Half Marathon Sun 15 Mar Bath More info Tickets Charity Easter Egg Trail Fri 03 Apr Bradley Stoke More info Register here London Landmarks Half Marathon Sun 12 Apr London More info Tickets Events Gallery Frozen Princess Show 6 December 2025 Christmas Market 29 November 2025 Members' 40-Year Celebration 19 June 2025 Corporate Abseil 16 May 2025 Halloween Party 26 October 2024 Colour Run 9 June 2024 Corporate Abseil 10 May 2024 Pink Moon Swim 19 April 2024 Winter Solstice Sunrise Swim 22 December 2023 Christmas Market 3 December 2023 Abseil 13 September 2023 Colour Run 11 June 2023

The Brightwell offers expert Functional Electrical Stimultion (FES) assessments and advice for foot drop and gait issues at our Clinic in Bradley Stoke, Bristol. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a treatment that applies small electrical charges to a muscle that has become paralysed or weakened, due to damage in your brain or spinal cord. The electrical charge stimulates the muscle to make its usual movement. In MS and other neurological conditions, it is mostly used as a treatment for foot drop, where disruptions in the nerve pathways between the legs and brain mean the front of your foot cannot be lifted to the correct angle when walking. Histor y FES was first developed in the United States in the 1960s, where it was initially tested in stroke patients. Although early results were promising, it wasn't used regularly in clinical practice until much later, as it was very much seen as an experimental treatment. Research on its use in stroke for both foot drop and to assist finger movements, was first published in the late 1970s. In the mid-1980s, a group based in Salisbury in the UK started to look at using FES. Originally their work was in people with spinal cord injuries; from this initial work they went on to develop devices for people with MS in the early 1990s and it continues to be used today. FES is currently being investigated to see if the technique can help with swallowing, hand and arm function, and even breathing problems for pulmonary disease patients and for stroke patients. It has several potential future uses in MS. How does FES work? A FES device consists of a control box, about the size of a pack of cards, with a battery and electrodes. For foot drop, the device is usually worn in a cuff below the knee. This is where the electrodes can stimulate the nerve that goes to the muscle that would normally lift the front of your foot. At the right moment in your gait, when your foot is about to lift up to be swung forwards, the FES device stimulates the nerve and lifts the foot. The stimulation stops when the foot hits the ground again. It may take some time to adjust the timing specifically for you and your gait. Some FES devices have a sensor that is worn in the heel area, to help with the timing, but in modern devices that is optional. This means that the FES device can be worn with bare feet or sandals. What are the benefits of FES? Research and experience has shown that treatment with FES produces a more normal walking pattern, enabling people to walk faster, further and with less effort. It can also help build confidence in walking and increase independence as well as reducing the risk of trips and falls. As well as being a treatment for foot drop FES can also be used in rehabilitation, complementing physiotherapy techniques, often to assist with movements in muscles that have become weak. This allows you to build up strength and range of movement. This may also help with reducing spasticity and sometimes in reducing swelling, depending on the cause. What side effects could I get with FES? The electrical stimulation causes a tingling 'pins and needles' or buzzing sensation on the skin, much like a TENS machine. Ensuring that wires and pads are in the correct position can help minimise some of these sensations. For most people this is not a problem. FES may take a little bit of getting used to. Your physiotherapist may need to help you relearn a comfortable gait, as old habits that helped you manage your foot drop are no longer needed. You may have some soreness in your legs, hips or torso as you learn to use different muscles to walk. Very occasionally people find that the stimulation or the electrodes causes irritation of their skin. Using hypoallergenic electrode patches or asking your Brightwell physiotherapist about changing the type of stimulation that is used can often solve these problems. You will be provided with your personal set of pads and electrodes at your first consultation. Who can use FES? If you have difficulty with walking due to foot drop, you may benefit from FES. However, as FES stimulates the existing nerves in the legs, it is important that your nerve fibres between the spinal cord and the muscles are not damaged. To be suitable for the treatment, you need to be able to walk, even if only for a few metres with a stick or other walking aid. Typically, you will have an initial assessment that lasts for about an hour to see if you are suitable for treatment and if you respond to the FES stimulation. If you do respond, then you can start the treatment process. One of our physiotherapists will set up the device with you and teach you how to use it. At first you may find it difficult and time consuming to put the device on and position the pads correctly, but this becomes easier with practice. Once one of our trained physiotherapists and you have agreed that a FES device is beneficial and suitable, we will give you a clinical referral to a recommended supplier. That supplier, will discuss cost and options with you, as well as delivery timescales. Follow up sessions at The Brightwell will be necessary to adjust the electrode position and the strength of the electrical stimulation. This can change as your muscles strengthen and your nerves get used to the level of stimulation. How do I get an appointment at The Brightwell FES Clinic? If you are an existing member and/or come to The Brightwell for therapy, your physiotherapist will be able to recommend your suitability to be booked into an assessment session. If you are not an existing service user, please call 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk to be booked in. The assessments work as follows: Initial assessment with a fully trained FES physiotherapist Approximately one hour, cost £60 plus a one-off fee of £18 for personal pads and electrodes. Follow up sessions. You will usually only require one or two follow up sessions. Cost £60 each. Annual reassessment We recommend an annual review to look at continued correct use, gait, posture, and any physical changes. Equipment Please note that we will refer you to a reliable and approved supplier, The Brightwell does not offer any warranty for the equipment or recommend any funding options. The supplier will discuss costs with you. We will gladly supply a letter of clinical support if required. We would like to thank Woodstock Homes for their ongoing support and for funding to set up The Brightwell FES Clinic.

The Brightwell team includes a expert physiotherapists, volunteer Oxygen Chamber operators, through to our support and fundraising teams and our Board of Trustees. Meet The Brightwell Team We have a truly exceptional team of people working, volunteering and supporting us here at The Brightwell. If you think that you might like to join our team please read more information by clicking he links below Volunteer Support Us Administration and Support Team Doro CEO Caroline Finance Officer Dawn Lead Receptionist Paula Cafe Coordinator Helen Centre Administrator Monique Receptionist Fundraising Team Victoria Head of Fundraising (Grants and Trust) Lara Events, Marketing and Communications Officer Physiotherapy Team Amrik Lead Physiotherapist Millie Rehabilitation Therapist Audrey Physiotherapist Lauren Physio Assistant Aaron Physiotherapist Oxygen Team Angela Oxygen Coordinator Keith Senior Operator Jane S Volunteer Operator Howard Volunteer Operator Hazel Volunteer Operator Andy Volunteer Operator Mike Volunteer Operator Carol Volunteer Operator Stevyn Volunteer Operator Anju Volunteer Operator Guy Volunteer Operator Sandra Volunteer Operator Roger Volunteer Operator Brian Volunteer Operator Peter Volunteer Operator Ted Volunteer Operator Caroline Volunteer Operator Board of Trustees Geoff Chair of Trustees Paul Trustee Charles Trustee Steve Trustee David B Trustee Caz Trustee Roger Trustee David G Trustee Tina Trustee

The Brightwell

The Brightwell

Consent form for physiotherpy at the Centre with COVID-19 guidance < Back Consent form This form is for all existing and all potential members who wish to receive physiotherapy at The Brightwell, The West of England MS Therapy Centre or The Bristol Therapy Centre. You need to fill this form in before you physically attend or virtually attend a physiotherapy session. You only need to fill this form in once. First Name Last Name Email Phone If you are at high risk from coronavirus you're advised to follow the shielding advice issued by Public Health England to protect yourself. If this is the case you may not be offered a face to face appointment at the Centre. However, you will still be eligible to access our online, virtual appointments. If you are continuing to shield we also advise you to look at the self-management tools offered by the NHS. THE MAIN SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 ARE; A new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual) A high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest and/or back (you do not need to measure your temperature) A loss or change to your sense of taste or smell - this means you’ve noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal Most people with COVID-19 have at least one of these symptoms. WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS If you have ANY of the main symptoms of COVID-19 you must; Stay at home (self-isolate) - do not leave your home or have visitors. Anyone you live with and anyone in your support bubble must also self-isolate Get a test - Get a test to check if you have COVID-19 as soon as possible . Anyone you live with and anyone in your support bubble should also get a test To get a test visit https://www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test Continue

We offer specialist sessions as well as oxygen therapy and physiotherapy, including sports massage, acupuncture, counselling and bladder and bowel health clinics. We also host visiting practitioners such as the Molli suit team, AAA clinic and Ultrasound Direct by appointment. Specialist Clinics The Brightwell provides access to a variety of specialist clinics, both medical and advice-based. Each therapist is fully qualified in their field and registered with the relevant professional bodies. Below are just some of the Clinics and Sessions available. You can also keep up to date with interesting articles and updates on our Health & Wellbeing section of our Blog To check availability and book a session, please call reception on 01454 201 686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk Acupuncture Baldder and Bowel Acupuncture has been used since the 1970's as a complementary treatment for many neurological conditions and it has a good reputation for its ability to stabilise and, in some cases, improve many of the symptoms. In recent years, well documented research and modern acupuncture techniques have been introduced to help improve the efficacy of the treatment. There are different systems of acupuncture which can be used either by themselves or in combination for treatment: Body acupuncture: Can target any area of the body affected in order to help; improve blood circulation, increase relaxation in the muscles and tissues, pain relief, relief from anxiety and insomnia, increase energy levels, improve bladder control and digestive function, among many other benefits. Scalp acupuncture : A system developed in more recent years specifically for neurological conditions. Here, points are treated along lines on the scalp that lie directly over the specific areas of the brain that control different bodily functions such as mobility, sensation, balance, etc. Sam May is an experienced acupuncturist who is well versed in the complexities of neurological conditions. He holds a degree in Acupuncture from the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, and has been practicing in Bristol since 2010 Ear acupuncture : This system is based on a theory similar to that of reflexology where specific points of the auricle (external ear) act as reflex points for different parts of the body which can therefore be treated through the ear. This type of acupuncture is particularly effective for stress, anxiety and pain anywhere in the body and it is also used worldwide for the emotional and physical symptoms related to drug and alcohol withdrawal as well as PTSD. Acupuncture If you are unsure that acupuncture is for you, Sam will be more than happy to meet with you to answer any of your questions and to discuss a treatment plan. Sam is at The Brightwell for appointments on Fridays between 9.30am and 2.30pm. Each session lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. Initial Consultation £40 Treatment session £30 One to One Counselling About Counselling Psychotherapeutic counselling provides a secure and confidential[1] space for you to talk to a trained professional about your issues and concerns. Counselling can help with many difficult life problems and challenges. It is also an opportunity to develop new perspectives and deepen existing insights into yourself and your life as a whole. In this way therapy can be an ongoing process of transformation not only for when we are suffering but also for when we need space to navigate life, explore the past and find meaning and hope for the future. The process involves building a trusting relationship between you and your therapist. They will work with you to explore your unique circumstances, challenges, perspectives, thoughts, feelings, beliefs, values and behaviours so you can develop a better understanding of yourself and others. They will help you make beneficial changes to ease distressing feelings and move to a place of thriving rather than just surviving. A counsellor will give little or no direct advice - they will help you find your own solutions and your own path forward. About Sasha Sasha is an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. She works to build open and trusting therapeutic relationships and will take time to listen, explore and understand the world from your point of view and at your own pace. You can talk about anything that’s troubling you, confidentially and without judgment. Sasha has wide experience working with many mental health symptoms, including depression, anxiety, stress and burnout. Whilst she works with all the challenges life can bring, she has particular experience and interest in chronic illness and long-term health conditions, major life transitions and change, grief and loss. She also has specialist training and experience in working with past inter-personal trauma. Sasha’s experience as a counsellor includes working in NHS primary care general practice in Somerset, with St Peter's Hospice in Bristol and in a trauma therapy service in South Wales, where she still currently works. She is also a therapeutic group facilitator for a national disabled people’s organisation, runs a small private practice and is an occasional associate lecturer at the University of the West of England. She has over fifteen years of experience with the Samaritans providing emotional support over the phone, face-to-face- face and via email and has also supported individuals longer-term through Bristol-based organisations such as the West of England Centre for Inclusive Living (WECIL), Changes and Womankind. Sasha can offer shorter or longer-term therapy in-person, online or over the phone. Sessions last 50 minutes. Contribution per session £40 [1] There are some exceptions for legal and ethical reasons, which will be explained to you. Massage, Aromatherapy & Reflexolgy Claire Day, is a Therapeutic Health Practitioner. Qualified in Advanced Clinical Massage Therapy, TRE (Trauma/Tension Release exercise), Manual Lymphatic Drainage, and is also a Nordic Walking Instructor. Claire uses massage, movement & mindfulness to help build resilience from within and promote wellness. Claire works with a broad spectrum of people, from those seeking a relaxing treatment for health and wellness to those with mental health issues, sporting injuries, soft tissue injuries, and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, including Neurological Conditions, arthritis, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, frozen shoulder, joint pain, migraines, piriformis syndrome, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff Injury, sciatica, tendonitis | tennis & golfers' elbow, and many more... She aims to help reduce pain & tension, increase your range of movement, and promote your body's health & wellbeing whilst building on your self-care knowledge. Claire also offers Rehabilitation for: Sports injury, Surgery, Pre/Postnatal, Illness & Post viral, TMJ Supporting those living with: Cancer, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurological Conditions, Physical disabilities, Fibromyalgia, ME, and Autoimmune illness. At The Brightwell Claire is at The Brightwell every Monday. Each session lasts 1 hour Cost £45 Foot Health & Care We are delighted to welcome Therese Staniland to the Brightwell from Wednesday 2 August 2023. Therese Staniland, originally from South Africa and has been in the beauty and nail industry since 2002, she was a trainer for Star Nails and owned her own training school in South Africa. She will be offering specialist foot care treatments and procedures. She is qualified as a Level 4 foot health practitioner and is passionate about the therapies she offers. Services Include: Cut and file nails Nail reconstruction Care in diabetic Feet Corns Hard skin removal (Callus) Veruca Treatment (Verrutop) Ingrowing toenails Nail fungus treatment Foot or Lower Leg Massage Manicures with gel polish. 30 minute appointments available. Follow up sessions 6/8 weeks. Cost: 30 mins £30 Reflexlogy Since I was a young boy growing up on the family farm, I have been active and loved being outdoors. My passion for sports and outdoor pursuits has continued through the years. I have also had a keen interest in Complementary therapies, which peaked in 2013 when I was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition. I explored alternative options that may be able to help with my condition, improve my overall wellbeing and allow me to keep active. Experiencing the benefits of Reflexology first hand changed my interest into a motivating new career. Now, as a qualified Reflexologist, and member of the Association of Reflexologists and the Complimentary Natural Healthcare Council, I provide treatments to people around North Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire.. Alongside, I enjoy being a supportive Dad to my lovely daughter. In recent years, I have volunteered at St. Peter’s Hospice and for McMillan at Southmead Hospital. I believe in supporting others without expectation and volunteering to offer support to others is incredibly rewarding to me, and for my family. At The Brightwell I am at The Brightwell every three weeks on a Tuesday with appointments starting from 10am until 1pm. Each session lasts 45 minutes. A contribution to the charity of £15 per session for your treatment is politely suggested. Please book at reception. Massage We are delighted to announce that Helen Baddon, as one of our Specialist Therapists. Helen is a Therapist, Healer & Yoga instructor, with a BSc (Hons) in Complementary Health. Helen will be running clinics on Wednesday from 10 am to 2 pm once a month from 5 November 2025 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. Mollie Suits The experts from the Company that provides Mollie Suits often hold sessions here at The Brightwel. These appointments are for those who are intetrested in finding out more and to check the suitability of the product for each individual's needs. For further information and to book an appointment, please visit www.remotion.co.uk Benefits and Advocacy Service with Bristol Citizens Advice Bureau Dates to be advised Therapy/Treatment Rooms for Hire We have 2 Therapy/Treatment Rooms, each one offering the following features; Washbasin with hands free mixer tap Plinth bed Desk with chair Medical grade lighting Ceiling hoist Automatic hand towel dispenser Access to our Centre WIFI Air Conditioning For further information, please visit our Cafe and Therapy Room Hire pages.

Our sustainability pledge outlines the steps we have taken and those we need to take to become to become carbon neutral Our Sustainability Pledge Background Bradbury House, the location for The Brightwell , was officially opened in 2012. Therefore, the build and construction were carried out in the 18-month period prior to that, at the time it met all the latest energy efficiency standards and was graded on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) report as efficiency level C. The management and t rustees of The Brightwell understand the importance of doing their part to address the climate emergency and have committed to carbon neutrality by 2050. In 2019 The Brightwell launched “Project Green” in order to help The Brightwell meet its environmental responsibility goals, as well as to create a more secure and sustainable financial future for the charity. Electricity is used for everything in Bradbury House, except the gas underfloor heating and hot water to the eight sinks used in the various WC and treatment areas. The overall cost of electricity varies throughout the year, depending on how much is generated through the solar panels. Electricity costs and usage have increased since August 2022, as we are now generating our own oxygen. Existing Energy Saving Strategies Solar Panels The charity was very fortunate that Solarsense donated 114 solar panels which were installed on the roof of The Brightwell in December 2019. These have allowed significant savings on costs, with major savings in the summer of 2022 due to the exceptional levels of sunshine. These panels can create up to 28.5kW of electricity per hour on bright days. The estimat e has been made that they can generate up to an impressive 29,000kWh per annum. However, because we do not have storage batteries at this stage and as Total, our current energy provider, does not offer a suitable package for us to return energy to the grid, we are not yet enjoying the full benefits of these panels. Solar panels have proven to provide cost-saving for us, but savings are currently being lost through overproduction. The installation of a large storage battery is planned but the immediate need is to try and make urgent and significant savings on the overall cost of electricity. LED Light Conversion After taking professional advice, it was estimated that the cost saving per light fitting would be a massive 80%, with approximately £2,500 pa of the current electricity costs is due to lighting. With new tariffs and price caps being lowered this could increase by five or six times, to an eye-watering £15,000 pa just on lighting. The charity could not possibly afford the electricity based on using the current fittings, without making significant cuts elsewhere, which may impact our members well-being. The conversion to LED lighting is therefore essential. Replacement Outside Lighting In January 2023 after a significant donation from a corporate sponsor, via the Brightwell 100 , all of the exterior lights were converted to LED. Before this the outdoor lights were disproportionately more expensive than the inside lighting to run. The replacement programme of all the lights on the 13 lamp posts and all exterior wall fittings to LED has been a significant step forward and when this installation took place the cost savings were immediate. Staff Awareness Whenever possible staff and volunteers have received guidelines to ensure that all the lights are switched off whenever practical, and the air conditioning units go onto standby mode, which can be obviously turned on or overridden for the comfort of all users. All Brightwell users and visitors are also encouraged to recycle and use reusable products where possible. New facilities During the spring and summer of 2022, a number of significant building projects have taken place at The Brightwell including the whole development of an area, previously used for storage, which has enabled us to build the new cafe seating space, new offices for the administration and fundraising teams, a new smaller storage area and a state-of-the-art conference/ meeting room. These new facilities have been built with efficiency and cost savings in mind and have extensive use of natural light coming into the new office and LED lighting in the cafe seating area. The new cafe facility should be open in August 2023 and will also be to the most energy efficient standards. Oxygen Generation Included in the renovations and new build projects for the summer of 2022 was the installation of our own oxygen generation system. This was always going to be to give the centre independence away from the supplier and to avoid their rapidly rising costs and to help maintain a high level of supply to our hyperbaric therapy tank with sufficient capacity to build a further tank in the future. However, the costings of running the new oxygen generation units were based on the cost of energy at the time of the design (late 2020) The rising cost of electricity will have an impact as the new compressor uses 37kw of power compared to the previous one working at 15 kw. The overall environmental impacts are still very positive including there are no longer frequent deliveries using large tankers driving through the local housing estate and past the primary school located next door to The Brightwell. New Boiler System This expense was unfortunately was not a planned or budgeted for. The heating system, although only ten years old, was a very costly commercial system when it was installed but had proven to be very expensive and unreliable over the past few years. After a complete failure the system was condemned. Although the expense of £10,000 was not budgeted for, the installation of the new system in February 2023 does mean that the new boiler meets the top specifications in terms of efficiency and green credentials Future Plans - subject to funding Subject to being able to get funding the following projects are next on our list. 1 LED Lighting conversion in the Physiotherapy department. When the space to be used for the physio department was designed the window area was comparatively small compared to the rest of the building. The facility as a whole is a great space for all the equipment and the hoisting system is perfect. However, due to the limited natural light and the fact that the department is used extensively during the week the lights are on for most of the time, Therefore, the Physio department’s lighting being converted to LED is top of the list. The estimated cost for this is £5,000 with an estimated 30-month payback period. 2. Remaining Internal LED lighting This ideally should be done throughout the building, before the darker nights occur, so realistically before October 2023, The cost will also be about £5,000 with a 30-month payback period. 3. 100Kw Battery Storage We are seeking funding to install a 100Kw storage battery, to save money, and meet our environmental responsibility. As mentioned above The charity was very fortunate to have been given 114 250w solar panels through a partnership with solar company Solarsense. Cost savings, through having this level of battery storage, will come from the ability to generate oxygen for the next day’s sessions overnight using stored electricity, when our electricity unit cost is cheaper. Based on 4 quotes and surveys undertaken, we are also confident that for most of the year power generated solely at weekends when the Centre is closed would allow us to run the oxygen generation system, cost-free for up to two days per week. We estimate that the cost will be £90,000 and we have to look at this in terms of the key issues issues. These are: Rise in energy prices leading to the potential for bills to be at an unsustainable level, affecting service delivery. Wastage of power generated by our solar array Ensuring a financially stable future for the Charity Commitment to Carbon neutrality by 2050 How to find out more If you would like to discuss any of our Environmental policies or aims or would like to help or contribute, please contact Victoria Hocquard email Victoria.Hocquard@thebrightwell.org.uk