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- The Brightwell | Multiple Sclerosis | The Brightwell, Bradbury House Clinic, Wheatfield Drive, Bradley Stoke, Bristol, BS32 9DB
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.
- The Brightwell | Physiotherapy
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 | Brightwell 100
The Brightwell 100 is a network of businesses and corporate donors, who all have the shared aim of supporting the work carried out at The Brightwell, through fundraising, by donated goods & services, and volunteering. The Brightwell 100 The Brightwell 100 is a network of businesses and corporate donors, who all have the shared aim of supporting the work carried out at The Brightwell, through fundraising, by donated goods & services, and volunteering. The Brightwell 100 initiative was launched in February 2022. Since that time, Brightwell 100 members have supported us with the following projects. Major Projects Oxygen Generation plant Outdoor LED lighting upgrade New Café New terrace and gazebo area In-house Brightwell Shop New Oxygen area kitchen IT Equipment PCs, monitors for staff and volunteers. Projector for Conference room Event Sponsorship and participation Colour Run Abseil Water Park events Corporate Volunteering days Sponsorship and Marketing Physio Team Uniforms Event materials and merchandising. Donated expertise and goods Garden landscaping Emergency repairs Gardening equipment Café equipment Furniture for the lounge area Professional Video/Photographic services Service User enhancements Oxygen masks and storage Physiotherapy equipment. FES Clinic set up and equipment. Ongoing fundraising support Donated Items and experiences for raflfes and draw prizes How does the Brightwell 100 work? There are a number of ways the businesses can be involved. The Brightwell Wishlist One aspect of joining this unique network is by sponsoring or donating to something specific from our Wishlist. Many of our sponsors really like the fact that they can choose exactly where their money is spent and where it will be used. The items on our Wishlist range from a contribution to one of our major projects, through to paying for Counselling Sessions , or purchasing items that will enhance our Service Users experience and therapies. Please click here to view or download our latest Brightwell Wishlist Regular Contributions by Standing Order You can also make a regular donation, again for a specific purpose, via a Standing Order. If applicable you can add 25% to your donation via GiftAid. Donate via our JustGiving page Please make a donation via our Brightwell 100 JustGiving page, by clicking on the Logo above Our Wishlist What are the benefits for The Brightwell 100 members? Supporting a worthwhile charity where your support has a positive impact. Enabling the supporting businesses to fulfil their charitable aims and objectives Being associated with a long-standing and reputable charity (we will provide you guidelines about the use of our name and logo) Being part of a professional network with a shared interest. Knowledge that 100% of your donation will be used for charitable purposes Tax-efficient way to donate with receipts and letters of thanks will be provided Publicity via our website and social media outlets for the supporting businesses Promotional opportunities with visits to the Centre, photos with staff and Centre members (with usual permissions and safeguarding in place) Use of the Brightwell's café, lounge area and outdoor garden/terrace. Regular updates and stewardship of your donation Brightwell 100 members These members are listed in their approximate date of joining. Many of our Brightwell 100 members have made contact and developed mutually beneficial business relationships. Howards Motor Group Woodstock Homes Shiptheory MSB Land & New Homes Blackfriars Auto Services Intoheat Bristol Mortgages Online CWT Landscape Supplies AJH Governance R H Hall Food Services Classeq Rugged Interactive Solarsense Total Access Scaffolding City Electrical Factors Bristol B&Q Cribbs Causeway Babcock International Ashton Alteriors Design & Build County Contractors Delta Marriott Bristol Wain Homes Rebus Medical The Block Bakehouse Ben Hutcheson Music MS People's Help Davies & Partners PPS Building Services Event Hosts and Prize Donors West Country Water Park Village Hotel Bristol Aztec Hotel & Spa Lovell Place Care Home Willow Brook Centre Black Sheep Kitchen & Bar Hollow Tree Pub The Kendleshire Assist Mobility Tall Pines Golf Club Berwick Lodge What to do next For further information please contact Caz Blake-Symes, Trustee and Brightwell 1 00 co-ordinator, caroline.blake-symes@thebrightwell.org.uk Thank you for your interest in The Brightwell 100. We would very much like to invite you and your team for a visit and you can find out more about us and the services we provide, plus you can decide which areas of The Brightwell 100, you wish to be involved with, that fits in with your Company’s values and philosophies. Ways to keep in touch with updates regarding The Brightwell 100 The Brightwell Blog Follow us on LinkedIn You can also download our guide about Ways to keep in touch with The Brightwell.
- The Brightwell | Treatmend Fund Campaign
The Brightwell Help Us Keep Therapy Accessible For All This is your Services Page. It's a great opportunity to provide information about the services you provide. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors. Donate Here Every day, people living with neurological conditions face more than health challenges - they face barriers to accessing the therapy they need to live well. Our Treatment Fund exists to remove those barriers. When you donate to our Treatment Fund, you help us: Subsidise therapy costs for those who need it most Ensure no one is turned away due to financial hardship Keep vital therapy accessible for people living with neurological conditions Even a small donation can make a life-changing difference. Together, we can ensure therapy remains within reach for everyone who needs it. The Challenge We're Facing Demand for our services is growing, and so are our costs. More people need support, and to meet this demand we are extending our opening hours, which means: Increased staffing and recruitment costs Higher operational and running expenses At the same time, we are committed to keeping our therapies subsidised and affordable, even during this period of growth. Without additional support, this becomes increasingly difficult. Your support helps us continue offering high-quality, affordable therapy to those who rely on us. Our Goal 🎯 Raise £3,000 this quarter to help keep our therapies subsidised and accessible for everyone who needs them. Donate Here How We'll Make It Happen To bring this campaign to life, we’ll be: Sharing weekly case studies from our members, highlighting the real impact of our work. Hosting pop-up fundraising events at the centre and in the local community. Posting weekly videos showcasing life at the centre and the therapies we provide Running a weekly Brightwell shop rotation, featuring different products and themes Members Stories Roger, Member "The Brightwell is a lifeline for me as it is a place where I can be sociable, as I live alone. It is handy for me to get to in my electric wheelchair. Staff and volunteers are so helpful."
- The Brightwell | Donate NEW
The Brightwell Thank you for choosing to 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. Donate Now Please use the form below to donate using a debit/credit card, Google Pay or PayPal Last name First name Email Donate in the name of Enter the amount £ Gift Aid my donation Address Town / City Postal / Zip code Donate Thank you for your donation! Other ways to donate You can donate via JustGiving. Click on the image below to go to our JustGiving page. Want to make a regular donation? 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. Standing Order Form 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 Brightwell will receive £12.50. This makes a huge difference to us. In Order for us to claim Gift Aid we ask that you provide us with your name and address. Thank you. 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.
- The Brightwell | Work for The Brightwell
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.
- Therapy Room Hire in Bradley Stoke, North Bristol
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.
- The Brightwell | Therapies
The Brightwell offers a unique environment for those looking to receive an extensive range of therapies for people with chronic neurological and other conditions. Therapies at The Brightwell The Brightwell offers a unique environment for those looking to receive an extensive range of therapies for people with chronic neurological and other conditions. We are proud to confirm that our facilities are second to none in the Greater Bristol area and we offer a friendly yet professional approach in a non- clinical environment. The Brightwell offers fully accessible premises, with extensive free disabled parking. In the physiotherapy department there is a full hoisting system and a vast array of equipment. Each therapist is fully qualified in their field and registered with the relevant professional body. All our volunteers are also trained to the highest standard. Click here to find out about Becoming a Member. Oxygen Therapy For Neurological Conditions Oxygen Therapy for Sports Injuries Oxygen Therapy for Other Conditions One-to-One Neuro Physiotherapy Groups and Classes Online Classes FES Clinic Specialist Clinics Support and Information What Conditions Do We Treat? How much do the therapies cost? All the sessions for those members living with neurological conditions are subsidised through our fundraising efforts and supporter donations. However, as a charity we do ask for a contribution towards each session, the details of which are below. It is the Charity’s policy to never deny someone support due to financial reasons and we welcome the opportunity to confidentially discuss any payment issues with anyone struggling to contribute towards for their therapy sessions. Please click here to see our Cancellation Policy Contributing by Standing Order Where possible, we request that members contribute by standing order. The benefits are as follows: It helps us with planning for staffing/volunteer levels. Members know they have a definite booking. You only pay for 44 weeks a year, to take into account holidays. Therapy sessions are still available to you for 51 weeks a year We are usually only closed for 1 week over Christmas and New Year. You know you have made your contribution, so there are no concerns about forgetting. It is easier to budget. Adjustments can be made for long-term absence, e.g. hospitalisation or prolonged illness. Standing orders are worked out on an average of 44 weeks per year if someone attends weekly. This takes into account 8 weeks of non-attendance for any reason. Examples 1-2-1 Physio at £28 per session X 44 weeks / 12 months = £102.66 per month Oxygen at £18 per session X 44 weeks / 12 months = £66 per month Please click here to download a Standing Order Form . If you are setting up your repeat payment via your banking app, please complete the bottom section of this form so that Reception is aware that you are paying by standing order. A member of staff or a member of our Reception Team will be pleased to work out your monthly payment with you based on your personal treatment plan. We can also print off any forms and complete them with you. We are proud to be part of the Neuro Therapy Network Please visit www.neurotherapynetwork.org.uk for further information.
- The Brightwell | Newsletters
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 September April October May November June December 2024 January July February August March September April October May November June December
- The Brightwell | Find out more about The Brightwell
The Brightwell, incorporating The West of England MS Therapy Centre, has been offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy and specialist physiotherapy for over 35 years. Based in Bradley Stoke, Bristol we support members from North Somerset, Bath, Gloucestershire and South Wales. About The Brightwell At The Brightwell, we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals living with chronic neurological conditions. With 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 Mis sion To build a dedicated and compassionate community, committed to the care and wellbeing of individuals living with neurological conditions, their families and carers. Our Goal Is to provide a range of therapies and services to support and enrich the lives of those living with neurological conditions. The Brightw e ll is... A relaxed, happy and caring space, where people can share their experiences, build friendships and access support when it is needed. An accessible building providing therapies and support services by qualified professionals. A place where the members, volunteers and staff are the cornerstones of a thriving and vibrant community. A hub for self-help and positivity. What we do ... Our therapies are provided in a warm, friendly non-clinical environment all with the aim to help reduce the physical, emotional and psychological effects of life with a neurological condition. We have a state of the art physiotherapy gym, oxygen therapy suite and a variety of individual treatment rooms, housing the wide range of therapies and clinics on offer. We are delighted to have recently opened our Brightwell Café, offering a selection of drinks, hot beverages, and snacks, members can relax and catch up with friends in our comfortable lounge In the summer we have a beautiful terrace, large gazebo and garden area for all our visitors to enjoy. Under 1% of the Centre's funding is statutory, we therefore rely on donations from the public, organisations and community groups to continue our vital work. What our members,volunteers and supporters have to say.... Click on the logos to see what others are saying about us on Google and Facebook Our History Following the introduction of Centres elsewhere in the country, a local group of people living with Multiple Sclerosis, their families and friends were brought together by Jackie and Ray Brightwell. With the support of ARMS (Action for Research into Multiple Sclerosis) a national organisation, they set up the first MS Therapy Centre to support people in the Bristol area. The Centre was opened in Nailsea in 1985 and at that time only offered oxygen therapy. Over time physiotherapy, exercise and yoga were introduced. We soon realised how important access to on-going physiotherapy was for people living with long-term conditions and the nucleus of our now well-equipped and well-staffed physiotherapy unit was established. As the Centre continued to grow counselling, reflexology and acupuncture were added to the therapies available. We also started to host various NHS clinics at the Nailsea Centre, these included an MS specialist nurse, a continence clinic and a speech therapist. The Centre in Nailsea had been expanded to take in three industrial units but planning restrictions, the nature of the buildings and the cramped car parking facilities made improving our facilities and further expansion impractical. On the 20th February 2012 we opened the doors at our brand new, purpose built Centre in Bradley Stoke. The Centre was officially opened by The Princess Royal, Princess Anne on the 31st October 2012. Research into the benefits of Oxygen therapy has been on-going with many agreeing that it can help many conditions, not just Multiple Sclerosis. From the beginning of 2012 we opened our doors to anyone with a neurological condition, as well as to others through our trading arm with all proceeds going back to the Charity. In 2016 discussions began with the members to formalise this expansion. At the Cente's AGM in 2017 it was agreed that renaming the Centre in memory of Jackie Brightwell would not only be a fitting tribute to a lady who gave so much to help so many but, was also a way of reaching out to those living with neurological issues. In 2019, we began the transition to The Brightwell - a Centre for neurological wellbeing and physical recovery. Our aims, strengths and core values remain the same as they were way back in the Nailsea days and we hope to continue to provide timely and effective help for the people who need us, well into the future. Our Sustainability Pledge The Brightwell is wholly committed to its Sustainability Pledge to be net Zero by 2050 and to have emmissions reduced by 50% by 50% by 2030. We try to adopt a “green “approach in whatever we do. We have been very fortunate that through focused fundraising campaigns, and incredibly generous support from a number of Brightwell 100 members we have achieved so much. Solar Energy has been a major focus with 114 x 250kw panels being fitted in 2019, upgraded by a further 40 x 400 kw panels in 2023, with the addition of 3 x 14kw storage batteries being installed at the same time. Despite considerable increases in energy costs for commercial properties, the benefit of generating this amount of solar energy has made a significant difference to keeping our fuel bills to a manageable level. We have also been working on a gradual LED lighting replacement programme. All the outdoor lighting was upgraded to LED in 2022. The internal lighting is an ongoing project. The new offices, meeting room and lounge area are all LED. As of February 2025 the Oxygen Suite has been completed with plans for the Physio department, the Reception and Cafe areas to be completed as soon as funds are available. In 2022 we started generating our own Oxygen for our Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber, Although this means we are using more power to generate the oxygen, environmentally there is no other impact as we no longer have large tankers making frequent deliveries and there is no waste. Other improvements have been the upgrade to a more efficient heating boiler and we are always mindful of any equipment purchased or disposed of. Our green credentials are very important to us here at The Brightwell. To find out more about the individual projects, how you can help us to fund more, the respective sponsors and the impact, please scroll through to our Blog Heading 3 Legal and Regulatory Information The Brightwell is an umbrella name for two main charities and a trading company. We are regulated by the Charities Commissions Regulations. These are The West of England Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre Limited Registered Charity Number 801155. The Brightwell Neurological Support Centre Limited Registered Charity Number 1109459. The trading arm is the Bristol Therapy Centre Limited Company Number 0819674. If you require any further information, please contact our CEO Doro Pasantes on 01454 201686.
- The Brightwell | Cafe
The Brightwell Café is open to all members, carers, staff volunteers and members of our wider Brightwell community. We are open from 10am with prepared food served until 2.30pm . As well as good quality tea, coffee and soft drinks, there are lots of items are to tempt you and tickle your taste buds, The Brightwell Cafe After much anticipation, we are delighted to announce that The Brightwell Café is now fully open and offering some delicious tasty items on the menu! The Café is open to all members, carers, staff volunteers and members of our wider Brightwell community. We are open from 10am with prepared food served until 2.30pm. As well as good quality tea, coffee and soft drinks, the following items are here to tempt you and tickle your taste buds: a selection of freshly made sandwiches (with gluten-free options available) jacket potatoes with a choice of delicious fillings an assortment of cakes (with gluten-free options available) A range of other snacks Everything we offer represents great value for money, using fresh ingredients and local suppliers. We will be developing the menu further over the coming weeks to serve hot food, healthy options and daily specials. Here is just a small sample of some of the tasty treats on offer..... We’re delighted to announce that The Brightwell Café has achieved a 5-star Food Hygiene rating from South Gloucestershire Council, following our first inspection on Monday 4 March 2024! A food hygiene rating tells consumers about the hygiene standards of a food premises to help them choose where to eat or shop for food. During an inspection, the food safety officer checks how well businesses are meeting the law by looking at: The handling of food How food is stored How food is prepared Cleanliness of facilities How food safety is managed The scheme gives food premises a rating from 0 to 5, where 5 shows hygiene standards are very good and 0 shows urgent improvements are required. We’re so pleased that The Brightwell Café has been awarded the maximum 5-star rating and that all the care and attention to preparing food taken by the café team has been officially recognised! Brightwell Buffets Are you thinking of having a work meeting, a family gathering for a special lunch or a friends get together and want a super buffet? We can help! The Brightwell Café is delighted to offer sandwich platter buffets with the option of a selection of cakes, fruit, canned drinks, bottled water etc. at a very competitive price. We can cater for special dietary requirements such as providing Gluten free bread, with Vegetarian and Vegan options available too – just contact us with your requirements and we’ll be happy to help. Buffet orders will need to be pre-ordered at least 48 hours in advance and are available for collection on weekdays between 10am and 3pm. For further information or to book a buffet please call 01454 201686 and ask for Paula or Helen to discuss your requirements or email us at hello@thebrightwell.org.uk . Alternatively, just pop into the café at The Brightwell to discuss your needs and we’d be happy to help! Coffee Lounge and Outdoor Terrace The whole Centre is fully accessible and there is free parking too. There is a choice of seating available and on warmer days, café users are welcome to enjoy our outdoor Terrace and Garden areas.
- The Brightwell | Volunteer
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. 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









