Chilterns MS Centre Thanks Supporters

Our thanks to Chilterns MS Centre for this news update.

We want to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time. We know the COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we all operate and that companies may have had to make tough decisions. The lockdown has thrown many challenges our way, as we are sure it has with you too, but our team has done a fantastic job in changing the way we deliver our services to our members.

We are still very much ‘open’ in a virtual sense. Our services have moved from face-to-face to virtual. This was no easy task as we were not geared up for working remotely and our team has worked incredibly hard to learn new ways of working, embraced new technology and have thought about new ways to reach and support our members.

Now, more than ever, our members need us as their physical and emotional wellbeing will be affected by self-isolation. Not having access to regular physiotherapy means that their symptoms may be more acute. Being in one place all the time can also affect their mental health, especially for those who are on their own. We recognise this and that’s why our programme of care centres on regular contact and social support. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from our members on what we have been able to do for them during this time.

‘The Centre has played a huge role in this time. The exercise classes, art and all the communication that has taken place in the last few weeks has really helped with the lockdown, you always have a helping hand whether it’s a private moment you need or would like to be involved in a class. You have all been a great help just by putting ideas on Facebook or email. Thank you to all who has made this lock down slightly easier by being there either on the phone, email or Facebook.’  Hermione Miller, Member.

Here are just a few ways in which we are supporting people with MS:

• Live exercises classes each week for people of different abilities through the week through Zoom
• Regular telephone and video calls to members who need them
• Online meetings, workshops and courses
• An increase in our Facebook Groups, centred around our therapeutic leisure groups and exercise
• Our buddy scheme has expanded – they provide a regular friendly chat and a supportive ear.

You can see what else we have been doing by visiting our website.

Can you help raise funds?

Whilst our support is still going strong, our income generating activities are not, as most have had to be postponed or cancelled. At least 40% of our income is at risk, and while the government support is welcomed, in reality it won’t be enough to keep us going through the pandemic.

That’s why will be joining in with the 2.6 challenge this Sunday – an initiative launched by “Save UK’s Charities’”.

If you would like to support us further, we would love you to participate in the 2.6 challenge on Sunday 26 April. You can do anything, from running 2.6 miles, spending 26 hours watching box sets, running up and down your stairs 26 times – anything that involves 2.6 or 26. You could also encourage your employees to take part and challenge each other. The possibilities are endless. Pick your challenge then ask friends, family and colleagues to sponsor you or make a donation. To find out more visit the 2.6 challenge page on our website.

Alternatively, we have also launched an appeal to help us to reach our 35th birthday in September.  If you would rather make a simple donation then please donate to our urgent appeal.

On behalf of all our members, volunteers and staff we wish you all the best during the continuing lockdown and thank you once again for your support. We look forward to welcoming you to the Centre soon.