Magical Moon Entertainment brings to The Brightwell this December a Frozen princess dance party & show with Anna and Elsa! When and where 05 Dec 2026, 10:50 – 12:00 The Brightwell, Bradbury House, Wheatfield Dr, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 9DB, UK About Calling all Frozen fans... Magical Moon Entertainment presents a Frozen-themed dance party & show for your children to enjoy. Meet and greet Anna and Elsa, including photos Doors open 10.45 am Show starts at 11:00am Show finishes 12:00pm Child tickets include a Frozen-themed gift. Children will be sat on the floor, so please feel free to bring along a cushion or two! Refreshments available to purchase on the day. Important Notice About Ticket Availability Due to limited space in the Centre, and to ensure as many children as possible can enjoy the show, we kindly ask that only one adult accompanies your party. To comply with our health and safety regulations, we are operating on a ratio of one adult for every two children. This helps us manage capacity and maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. This fundraiser is kindly sponsored by Explore Learning, your fantastic local English and Maths tutoring service, which means that every penny raised through this fundraising event will go towards providing life-changing therapy. Our therapies enable our members to minimise symptoms of their chronic conditions & live a fulfilled, independent life for as long as possible. Tickets are non-refundable. Limited Parking is available on site or on-street parking just outside the grounds. Buy Tickets

We have some fantastic news to share with our community at The Brightwell! Due to popular and increasing demand, we are thrilled to announce that we are expanding our Neuro Yoga and Pilates-Inspired Class meaning there are now two classes available every Friday to fit into your schedule! Whether you prefer an energising morning session or a restful afternoon wind-down, our dedicated Mind & Body Workout with Lauren is designed to help you move, stretch, and strengthen safely. What Are the New Class Times? Starting 6 November, you can join us on Fridays at two convenient times: Morning Session: 10:30 am – 11:30 am Afternoon Session: 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm What to Expect in Class Our Neuro Yoga and Pilates-inspired classes provide a supportive Mind & Body Workout created specifically to nurture both physical strength and mental clarity. Here is what makes this class special: Adaptable Levels: Exercises are offered at various skill and intensity levels, giving you full control to choose what feels best for your body. Supportive Environment: Work out alongside others in a friendly, welcoming group setting. Physical Requirement: To ensure safety during floor exercises, participants should be able to get on and off the floor without assistance. Pricing & Booking Details We offer flexible options for your suggested contributions to best suit you. Single Session £9 per session 10 Session Block only £60 How to Reserve Your Spot Spaces in both sessions fill up quickly! To secure your place in either the morning or afternoon class, please speak directly to Reception next time you visit, or get in touch with our team today. Call 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk

When and where 25 Nov 2026, 19:00 – 22:00 The Brightwell, Bradbury House, Wheatfield Dr, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 9DB, UK About Come along and join our next charity Bingo night, raising vital funds for the centre. Whether you're a Bingo regular or a first-timer, this is a relaxed, sociable evening where every ticket sold makes a real difference. Every penny raised on the night goes towards providing vital therapy for people living with neurological conditions. By joining us, you're not just in for a fun night out; you're directly supporting your local community and helping us continue this essential work. What's On 6 Bingo games 2 cash games Silly Bingo An exclusive raffle, available on the night. Bring your own drinks and nibbles, settle in with friends and family, and enjoy an evening of eyes-down excitement, all for a great cause. Event Details Date & Time: Wednesday 25th November, doors open at 6.30 pm. Bingo starts at 7 pm. Location: Bradbury House, Wheatfield Drive, Bradley Stoke, BS32 9DB Tickets: £8 per person. We can't wait to see you there! Buy Tickets

When and where 28 Nov 2026, 11:00 – 14:00 The Brightwell, Bradbury House, Wheatfield Dr, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 9DB, U K About Annual Christmas Market Saturday 28th November | 11 am–2 pm Get into the festive spirit and join us for our annual Christmas Market! Whether you're ticking off your Christmas shopping list or simply soaking up the seasonal atmosphere, there's something for everyone. Browse a wonderful selection of stalls full of gift ideas, warm up with delicious refreshments, and enjoy festive tunes. And that's just the start, with plenty more festive fun in store! Every visit makes a difference. All money raised on the day will help us continue providing vital therapies to people living with neurological conditions. Bring your friends, family and festive cheer. We'd love to see you there!

Why settle for one advent calendar when you could win three? This year we’re pulling out all the stops with our biggest advent calendar raffle ever, with a festive haul of prizes up for grabs! 1st Prize: The Original Trustworthy Grand Advent Calendar by Hotel Chocolat (worth £80) A luxurious countdown to Christmas, packed with indulgent chocolate treats behind every door. 2nd Prize: The Everything Advent Calendar by Hotel Chocolat (worth £30) A delicious variety of Hotel Chocolat favourites to enjoy all December long. 3rd Prize: The Yankee Candle Advent Calendar (worth £20) Fill your home with festive fragrance, with a new candle to discover each day. But we’re not stopping there! Our 4th and 5th prizes are Hotel Chocolat Christmas treats, so there are plenty of chances to win something special. How to Enter Raffle strips are £2 each Entrants must be 18 years or older Tickets can be purchased online or fro The Draw Winners will be selected on Wednesday 25 November. CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS! Collecting Your Prize Prizes must be collected from the Brightwell. For a free entry send a stamped letter to Bradbury House, Wheatfield Drive, Bradley Stoke, BS32 9DB. Maximum 5 entries. This prize raffle is kindly sponsored by Blackfriars Auto Services. Thank you for your generous support! Good luck, and happy Christmas! 🍫🕯️

Fiona, one of our centre members, turns 40 on 8th November, and she’s marking it in style: 40 miles in 40 days, all to raise funds for The Brightwell. Her target is £400, and we couldn’t be prouder of her for taking this on. She’s well into the challenge now, with just under two weeks to go, and every mile counts. Here’s her story, in her own words: On 8th November I’m turning 40, and to embrace this milestone I’m walking 40 miles in 40 days to raise vital funds for The Brightwell. This challenge is personal. Living with a neurological condition means pain and fatigue are part of my everyday life, so taking on 40 miles is not just about the distance – it’s also going to take extra gritted teeth and determination, lots of Deep Heat gel and pacing to manage every step. I’ll be splitting the miles up into manageable distances to tackle across the days leading up to my birthday. The Brightwell is a place that understands what life with these challenges really looks like. They provide a range of therapies, services, information and support for anyone affected by a neurological condition such as fibromyalgia, MS, Parkinson’s, stroke recovery and more. Therapies are provided in a purpose-built centre based in North Bristol, and relies on fundraising to keep running. Every mile I walk – however slowly, stiffly or stubbornly – is for that support, and for everyone who relies on it. I’d be so grateful if you’re able to sponsor me on my 40 mile birthday challenge. Your donation will help keep The Brightwell’s important work going…. and give me an extra push on the days when my brain and legs are having a heated argument about it! Fiona’s determination is inspiring, and with your support she can cross the finish line in style. Whether you can give a little or a lot, every donation helps keep The Brightwell’s work going and gives Fiona a boost on the tougher days. Support Fiona's challenge here: Fiona Baker is fundraising for MS Therapy Centre at Bristol Thank you, Fiona, for walking every one of those miles for us. We’re cheering you on all the way to the finish, and we hope you have a wonderful 40th birthday on 8th November!

Living with a long-term neurological or chronic health condition, such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s, Stroke, Long Covid, or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, can often feel like an isolating journey. Managing day-to-day symptoms, maintaining mobility, and taking care of your mental well-being require a supportive ecosystem. If you are based in or around the Bristol area, The Brightwell (located in Bradley Stoke) offers a warm, welcoming space dedicated to helping individuals take back control of their lives. What is The Brightwell? Originally founded over 40 years ago as the West of England MS Therapy Centre, The Brightwell has expanded its reach to support anyone living with a neurological condition. Unlike clinical medical environments that can feel cold or overwhelming, The Brightwell is built around a non-clinical, community-focused model. It provides a relaxed, friendly hub where members can access professional, affordable therapies tailored to their individual needs. Key Therapies & Services Offered The Brightwell offers a wide range of specialist therapies delivered by fully qualified, registered practitioners: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT): Helps boost oxygen levels in the bloodstream, supporting cell healing, energy levels, and symptom management for various neurological conditions. Specialist Neurophysiotherapy: One-to-one sessions in a fully equipped physiotherapy gym designed to improve mobility, strength, balance, and independence. Group Exercise & Classes: Tailored group activities, including accessible exercise classes and online options, to keep you moving at a pace that suits you. Complementary Therapies: Access to acupuncture, reflexology, massage, foot health care, and counselling to support both physical recovery and mental wellness. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) Clinic: Advanced techniques to assist with mobility challenges like foot drop. Coming Soon: The Ultra Tesla Seat: To strengthen the pelvic floor muscle effectively and non-invasively, improving the ability for muscle control and supporting continence and sexual function. Beyond Therapy: A Thriving Community. Managing a neurological condition is as much about emotional and social well-being as it is about physical therapy. The Brightwell is known for its strong sense of community: The Brightwell Café & Lounge: A comfortable social area to enjoy a coffee, relax, and chat with others who truly understand what living with a chronic condition is like. Carers Support Group: Recognising that conditions affect whole families, The Brightwell offers a dedicated group for partners, carers, and family members to share experiences, gain advice, and build connections. Peer Support: Connect with a diverse group of members who understand the highs and lows, helping reduce feelings of isolation. Accessible and Subsidised Care Because The Brightwell operates as an independent charity, therapies are heavily subsidised to ensure they remain accessible and affordable for members across the local Bristol community. The facilities are fully wheelchair-accessible, complete with specialist hoisting equipment and accessible parking. How to Get Involved If you or someone you care for lives in the Bristol area and wants to explore how targeted therapies and a supportive community could make a difference: Visit the Website: Learn more about their services at www.thebrightwell.org.uk Get in Touch: You can reach the team by phone at 01454 201 686 or via email at hello@thebrightwell.org.uk to arrange an initial visit or learn about membership options. Location: Bradbury House, Wheatfield Drive, Bradley Stoke, Bristol, BS32 9DB. Taking the first step toward finding long-term support can transform how you manage your condition, and The Brightwell is here to walk that path with you.

Caring for someone with a long-term neurological condition is an act of profound dedication, love, and resilience. Whether supporting a partner with Multiple Sclerosis, a parent with Parkinson’s, or a friend navigating life-changing health challenges, millions of unpaid carers across the UK form the invisible backbone of our healthcare and social support systems. As we approach Carer’s Rights Day on Thursday 19 November, coordinated nationally by Carers UK, it is a vital time to shine a spotlight on these remarkable individuals. This year’s core theme, “Know your rights, use your rights” serves as an essential reminder that carers deserve clarity, empowerment, and legal protections. Nowhere is the dedication of carers more visible, or more crucial, than within the community fostered by The Brightwell. The Heart of The Brightwell: Supporting the Supporters The Brightwell provides life-enhancing physical, holistic, and oxygen therapies to people living with neurological conditions, supporting individuals and their families week after week. However, behind every member attending a session, whether for physiotherapy, oxygen therapy, or support, stands a carer. Often, that support goes far beyond attending appointments. It encompasses 24/7 care management, emotional reassurance, physical assistance, and the management of daily household demands. The centre doesn’t just care for individuals with neurological conditions; it recognises that families and carers are an inseparable part of that journey. By offering a safe, welcoming community, peer support, and social spaces, The Brightwell provides much-needed breathing room for carers who so often carry the heavy weight of isolation and fatigue. Why Carer’s Rights Matter Many unpaid carers do not see themselves as "carers" they are simply partners, spouses, children, or friends doing what they can for someone they love. Because of this, they often miss out on knowing what they are legally entitled to. Carer’s Rights Day aims to bridge that gap. Some of the critical rights every carer should know and use include: The Right to a Carer’s Assessment: Anyone aged 18 or over providing regular, unpaid care is legally entitled to a carer’s assessment from their local authority to determine what support they might need. The Right to Unpaid Carer’s Leave: Under the Carer’s Leave Act, eligible employees have the right to take up to five days of unpaid leave per year to juggle caring responsibilities. Flexible Working Rights: Carers have the legal right to request flexible working arrangements from day one of employment to help manage work alongside their caring duties. Hospital Discharge Consultation: Carers have the right to be identified and consulted when the person they care for is being discharged from a hospital setting. Health and Well-being Protections: This includes being identified as a carer at GP practices and accessing priority health campaigns, such as annual flu jabs. Knowing these rights is the first step; using them ensures that carers can protect their own health, maintain their livelihoods, and continue providing sustainable care. To find out more, please visit www.carersuk.org Standing Together Living with a neurological condition brings unpredictable daily challenges, and the ripple effects touch every member of a household. By acknowledging Carers’ Rights Day, we validate the immense emotional and physical labour that carers contribute. If you are a carer connected to The Brightwell, please know that you are not alone. Lean on your local centre for community and guidance, and empower yourself with knowledge. To find out more, please visit our Carer’s Support page www.thebrightwell.org.uk/carers-support

I was born in Plymouth in 1957 and was one of six girls. My mum was a very caring person, and I always remember that she wanted to help other people in our community, and this was something instilled in me at an early age. My Dad was involved in major bridge-building projects. We moved around a lot during my childhood because of my Dad’s job, and in 1962 we moved to Chepstow. After the completion of the Severn Bridge, which my Dad oversaw, we were on the move again, this time to Pembrokeshire. I was 8 years old. When I was 16, I left the family home and moved to Tenby to work in the Belgrave Hotel, which was a really positive experience for me, and I enjoyed it immensely. I worked at the hotel until I was 20, and met my husband, and we married in 1977, when I was 20, which seems very young in today’s world, but was the norm back in those days to marry young. The following year we welcomed our daughter Anna, who was later diagnosed with autism. We then moved the family to Thornbury around 3 years later. Like many people living in that area in those days, my husband worked at Oldbury Power Station. My first son Gareth was born 5 years later with osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease). The doctors were not very positive and said that the prognosis was not good for him. Gareth proved the doctors wrong and lived a very happy and successful life. He never once complained about his life or felt sorry for himself; instead, he made the most it and lived life to the full. We welcomed our second son, Ceri, five years later. There was a local charity called The Severnside Opportunity Group, which was a playgroup set up for families and children with special needs. I attended with my children as it was a vital resource for the community before children attended school. I later ran the charity, which welcomed children with both physical and learning difficulties, as well as their siblings. I worked in this role for approximately 10 years. It was a significant part of my life, and I got to know and support hundreds of families over that period. I then worked at New Siblands School in Thornbury, which was a specialist school for children with complex special needs, and I worked there for 17 years. Additional needs have always been a part of my life and what I have always done. I found this work very rewarding over the years. I was extremely fortunate to go away on many wonderful family holidays to places such as Florida, Egypt and Jamaica, to name but a few. All of these holidays included Gareth, who had significant needs when we were at home and presented many additional challenges when travelling. We would not have considered leaving him out of any trips or holidays. I became a determined advocate and supporter for Gareth to ensure he had the same opportunities as other children. It is still exceptionally hard to travel and fly with disabled children even now, but because it was incredibly challenging back then, we always persevered and he had some fantastic experiences. After 30 years of marriage, in 2008 I amicably got divorced and moved to Bradley Stoke and met my new partner. Anna now lives independently in assisted living accommodation with around 10 hours of help each week. Before Gareth’s sad passing in 2022 at age 38, he successfully worked as an Accountant, was a member of MENSA and worked for the MOD. After he passed away, my heart was instantly broken. Ceri is married to our lovely daughter-in-law, Aimee and is the manager of The Oldbury Power Station and has 3 beautiful children, so I now have three amazing granddaughters who are aged 16, 12 and 9. I retired 5 years ago but found it hard not to do anything every day; the lack of routine was difficult. Before Gareth died, he encouraged me to volunteer and be part of a community. In 2023, I became a volunteer at The Brightwell. I now volunteer in the Café, and this is the best thing that I have ever done. The café is the hub of the Centre; there is always a great vibe where many different conversations are had each day. Volunteering at The Brightwell has helped me with the overwhelming grieving process and navigating retirement too. When Gareth died, I took on responsibility for his Chihuahua called Zeus, who has been an incredible support to me over the past years. He licks the tears away on those days when it is really difficult. He means everything to me, and I cannot imagine him not being around. I hope you have enjoyed reading my story and finding out more about me. So next time you are in the Café, come and say hello; it will be great to have a chat. Thanks and Best Wishes Sharon x

Life can be unpredictable. Whether we are facing the heat and dry spells of potential water shortages, or bracing for the biting cold and severe weather as winter approaches, the reliability of our home utilities is something we all rely on. But have you ever stopped to think about what would happen if your electricity, gas, or water supply were suddenly cut off? For most of us, a supply interruption is an inconvenience. For others—such as older residents, individuals with chronic health conditions, or those who rely on powered medical equipment—it can be a serious risk. If you or someone you know living in South Gloucestershire, Bristol, or North Somerset might need a little extra help during an emergency, there is a completely free, invaluable service designed to provide peace of mind: The Priority Services Register (PSR). What is the Priority Services Register? The Priority Services Register is a free, confidential support service run by utility companies. Once you are signed up, your energy and water suppliers know that you or members of your household may require tailored assistance if your supplies are interrupted. Depending on your provider and your specific needs, benefits of the register can include: Advanced notice of planned supply interruptions. Priority support and emergency updates during unexpected power cuts or water outages. Alternative provisions, such as emergency bottled water delivered straight to your door. Additional support services like large-print bills, password protection schemes for home visits to guard against bogus callers, or nomination contacts (allowing a family member or carer to manage communications on your behalf). Who is Eligible? You don't have to be registered disabled or of a certain age to qualify; the criteria are broader than many people think. You are generally eligible if you: Have reached state pension age. Are disabled or have a long-term physical or mental health condition. Are medically dependent on gas, electricity, or water (e.g., for home dialysis, oxygen concentrators, or specialised medical equipment). Live with children aged 5 or under, or are pregnant. Find yourself temporarily vulnerable due to life changes, a recent hospital stay, or recovery. How to Register in the South Gloucestershire, Bristol, and North Somerset Areas One important detail to keep in mind is that utility companies generally operate independently. While some water and energy networks share data links (for example, signing up with Bristol Water can automatically notify National Grid), your details are not automatically shared across every single utility provider. Here is how you can get signed up locally: 1. The Easy, All-in-One Online Option If you want to streamline the process, you can visit the centralised industry portal to find full details and register online in one place: The PSR Website 2. Local Water Providers Depending on where you live across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset, your water supplier will be either Bristol Water or Wessex Water. You can apply directly through their dedicated accessibility teams: Bristol Water: Covers much of Bristol and parts of the surrounding area. You can sign up via the Bristol Water Priority Services Page or call them directly on 0345 600 3600. Wessex Water: Covers North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, and wider Somerset/Wiltshire regions. You can register via the Wessex Water Priority Services Portal or call 0800 027 0800. 3. Electricity and Gas Network Suppliers Your electricity network operator manages the physical cables and responds to power cuts in your area (for our region, this is primarily National Grid Electricity Distribution). You can learn more and register directly via the National Grid Priority Services Hub. Don't forget to also contact your energy bill supplier (the company you actually pay your gas and electricity bills to), as they maintain their own separate customer vulnerability registers. Take a Moment Today Severe weather and utility outages can happen when we least expect them. If you, an elderly relative, or a neighbour fit the criteria, taking 5 minutes to check the registers can make all the difference when it matters most. Do you have a vulnerable friend or family member in the local area who might benefit from this? Share this post with them or help them sign up today!

On Saturday 10th October, the MS Society welcomed families to the Brightwell for a Digesting Science event, and what a day it was! From 11 am to 3 pm, parents, children, grandparents and friends came together to learn more about multiple sclerosis: what it is, the symptoms it can cause, and how it can be treated, all through a series of creative, hands-on activities. Digesting Science was set up in 2013 by the MS research team at Queen Mary University of London, who recognised that parents living with MS often need support when it comes to talking with their children about the condition. The activities were designed by scientists, designers and parents with MS working together, so everything is both scientifically accurate and genuinely fun. Rather than sitting through a talk, families get stuck in, exploring how the nervous system works and what happens when MS affects it, in a way that feels approachable rather than frightening. That’s exactly what we saw on the day. The room was full of conversation, laughter and curiosity as families worked their way through the activities together. Even the youngest members of the group threw themselves into it, and it was lovely to see children not only learning about the science behind MS, but also getting a sense of how the condition can make someone feel, whether that’s fatigue, changes in sensation, or simply having a bad day. One mum told us afterwards that her daughter now feels much less scared about MS, which is exactly what Digesting Science is all about. That kind of understanding can make a real difference at home. Just as valuable was the chance for families to meet one another. For many parents with MS, connecting with others in a similar situation is a reminder that they are not on their own, and for children it can be reassuring to meet other young people whose families share the same experiences. Lunch was provided for everyone, giving families time to relax, chat and swap stories between activities. By the end of the afternoon, everyone went home having learnt something new, and hopefully with a few new conversation starters for the weeks ahead. A huge thank you to everyone who came along and made the day so special, and to Maria Fitzgerald and the MS Society team for making the science of MS so accessible and engaging. More dates coming soon We’re hoping to host more Digesting Science events over the coming months. Keep an eye on future newsletters for new dates, and in the meantime, for tips and resources on how to tell children about an MS diagnosis, please see Explaining MS to Children - Tips & Support | MS Society UK