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Volunteers play a vital role at The Brightwell with nearly 10,000 hours being donated each year. Roles are varied and adaptable. Contact us to discuss how you can help. Volunteering Volunteers are the lifeblood of our success here at The Brightwell. If you are looking for a new interest or challenge, becoming a volunteer at The Brightwell might give you the opportunity you are looking for. You will be made very welcome and your input with make a positive and meaningful difference to our service users, staff and other volunteers. 5 6 3 5 1/7 Volunteer Opportunities We have the following volunteer opportunities available: Supermarket Collections Help our fundraising team and represent The Brightwell with collection tins and buckets at Supermarkets and Shops. Community Collection Administrator Help organise and manage collection tins that are distributed around local shops and organisations. This would require keeping track of tin locations, collecting and replacing tins when full. Raffle Prize Coordinator Source and organise the donation of raffle prizes for our monthly events. Some of our volunteers prefer to work a set number of hours per week on certain days and this works well when working closely with staff members of The Brightwell team. Please note that Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. If you are interested in a volunteer role we have available please email community@thebrightwell.org.uk or call us on 01454 201 686. Please also visit https://govo.org Enter our postcode BS32 9DB, to check out all our Volunteer opportunities. Thank you. Meet some of our amazing volunteers Janet Fundraising Volunteer Colette Fundraising and Events Howard Oxygen Chamber Operator Keith Volunteer Driver Gus and Mike Fundraisers Keith Lead Oxygen Operator Corporate Volunteers Many businesses, whether they are a SME, Limited Company, a Plc., or apart of a National or even an International Group, give their employees time off to support good causes and local charities like us. By volunteering, not only are the individuals involved helping their chosen cause, but often taking part in such activities promotes communication, team building and self-awareness. We are very fortunate to have been supported by such teams in the past including groups from TSB, Lloyds Bank, Rolls Royce and different sectors of the Civil Service. The Brightwell has benefitted from tasks such as working on the grounds, gardening, building maintenance, building projects and much more. We would very much like to welcome you to come and spend time with us here at The Brightwell for a volunteering event. Please contact us at hello@thebrightwell.org.uk 1/2

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.

Back for 2023 it's the Brightwell Easter Egg Hunt. Explore Bradley Stoke with the little ones, enjoy some fresh air and collect all the letters to win an Easter treat Bradley Stoke Easter Egg Hunt 2024! Egg-citing times! The hunt is back for 2024! Last year’s Easter Egg Hunt was a great success raising a brilliant £2,200 for the Centre & we had some excellent feedback from participants; “My children and I have really enjoyed the Ea ster egg hunt tha t The Brightwell Centre organised. We found paths we never know existed and walked/scooted much further than we would have. The displays were brilliant and picking up our prizes at the end made it even better. Hope you do it again next year!” – participant, Claire Similar to last year, families will follow trails around the Bradley Stoke area to search for hidden letters displayed on decorated Easter eggs, that are being hosted by the community. “Really enjoyed our experience of decorating our front g arden for the Easter trail was lovely to watch all the families come into the street looking for the letter! We loved doing the trails as a family ourselves as well” – Host and particip ant, Bea Once all the letters have been found along each trail, children can try to spell out the Easter word or phrase. On completion of all four trails, families can bring their completed answer sheets to The Brightwell to receive an Easter *surprise for their children and enjoy a fun photo opportunity to remember this event *(one Easter surprise per child per completed trail pack). There will also be the option to enter the Brightwell Easter raffle with some brilliant family-friendly prizes up for grabs - so don’t miss out! We hope this year’s hunt will be just as popular as last year and that the Centre will benefit from raising further vital funds, whilst delivering a fun, family even t for our local community. Get your Easter Trail Maps here The Egg Hunt will be available to complete during the Easter School Holidays from Thurs 28 until Sunday 14 April For more information please contact community@thebrightwell.org.uk EGGs-tra prize draw tickets here Thank you to this years very kind trail sponsors!

The Brightwell Support Us Your imagination is the only limit when it comes to fundraising for The Brightwell! Whether you host a collection, take on a challenge, join one of our events, or raise money from home, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Every donation helps fund vital face-to-face therapies, clinics, and social events for people living with neurological conditions. As an independent charity with no government or NHS funding, we rely entirely on the generosity of our supporters to continue our work. You can even choose where your donation goes—help someone you know with therapy costs or fund a project from our Brightwell Wishlist. Explore some fun and meaningful ways to get involved below! Support Us Fundraise Put the FUN in Fundraising! Find out more Volunteer Volunteers are the lifeline of our charity. Find out more Donate Support us by making a donation. Find out more Shop Our online charity shop. Find out more Brightwell 100 How corporates can get involved. Read More More information... For further inforation about other therapies at The Brightwell, please click on the following links Become a Member Oxygen Therapy Physiotherapy Support Us Donate Events Corporate Donations Leave a Gift in Your Will Volunteer Newsletters Gift In Will Remember us in your will. Find out more Click on the logo to sign up to our blog.

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We have several fantastic opportunities for you to work for a leading charity that supports people living with neurological conditions. Based in Bradley Stoke, Bristol, The West of England MS Therapy Centre, a part of The Brightwell, is an established and highly regarded Charity with over 30 years’ experience in the sector. ​ We deliver long-term rehabilitation therapy and vital support to people living with neurological conditions in our accessible, purpose built facilities.  ​ Join our team at The Brightwell Based in Bradley Stoke, Bristol, The West of England MS Therapy Centre, a part of The Brightwell, is an established and highly regarded Charity with over 40 years’ experience in the sector. We deliver long-term rehabilitation therapy and vital support to people living with neurological conditions in our accessible, purpose-built facilities. WE CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE ANY VACANCIES

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 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 Mark Trustee Caz Trustee Roger Trustee David G Trustee Tina Trustee

See all the latest news, events and updates from The Brightwell in our newsletters. Brightwell Newsletters Enjoy this page to look at our latest newsletter, view some of our previous editions and subscribe, so that you keep up to date with all the latest, news, Events and updates from The Brightwell. First name* Last name* Email* Submit Our latest newsletter Previous newsletters 2025 January February July August March April May June September 2024 January July February August March September April October May November June December

The Brightwell has various rooms for hire at competitive hourly and daily rates. Each one offers individually controlled air conditioning and free wi-fi. There is a chioce of therapy rooms and other meeting space available. Call us today to discuss costs and availability. Therapy Room Hire The Brightwell Centre, based in Bradley Stoke, North Bristol is a great venue for anyone looking to hire rooms on an hourly, half-day or daily basis. The Centre is conveniently located, just a few minutes from the M5, M4 and the M32, with Aztec West and Cribbs Causeway within easy reach. We have a choice of room options available, including a number of smaller Treatment and Therapy Rooms that can be adapted for a variety of uses. The Centre is fully accessible, with free on-site parking available on a first come, first served basis. We also have outdoor space with seating available for use, weather permitting. And whenever you want to take a break, refreshments are also available from our onsite café, with our relaxed seating area offering a comfortable place to enjoy a bite to eat. Please call or email us for room hire prices and availability. For more information please contact us on 01454 201 686 or hello @thebrightwell.org.uk Therapy/Treatment Rooms 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, to check availability and costs, please call 0 1454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk The Brightwell Cafe The Brightwell is delighted to offer the use of Its catering facilities to those wishing to just use our café as a meeting point for a coffee and cake through to providing lunch facilities for large groups. We can cater for most dietary requirements and Paula, our Café Coordinator will gladly discuss any specific requirements with you and give you a quotation and menu options. If you require catering for groups, please advise when making your room booking. Please visit our Brightwell Café page for more information.

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