Thriving Communities Fund supports those with multiple sclerosis
Physiotherapy at the Chilterns MS Centre has been bolstered by a grant of £10,000 from Vale of Aylesbury Housing’s Thriving Communities Fund, a grants scheme for community projects. The Centre treats and supports those with multiple sclerosis (MS) to enable them to live happier and healthier lives.
Regular physiotherapy and support can help people with MS to maintain mobility, cope with their symptoms better and achieve an improved quality of life. On average, the Centre offers 256 hours of physiotherapy a week through one-to-one care and group exercise sessions. The Centre currently treats 145 people with MS living in the Aylesbury Vale, including Sarah, who has been going to the Centre weekly for many years.
“The physios here are all fantastic. I’ve been seeing the same therapist for over 11 years. She helps to release muscle spasms, which give me annoying tiredness in my arms and legs, and works on my lack of body strength. She really understands my body and knows why I have a problem with my neck or a pain in my shoulder. I can’t open my left hand and she does a lot of work on that, which helps me to dress and do things for myself. It means everything to me coming here – it’s a real home from home.”
The Thriving Communities Fund Grants Panel was unanimous in its decision to award this grant in order to support the Chilterns MS Centre to continue its vital work. A spokesperson for the Trust commented:
“Enabling individuals to live happier and healthier lives is something we’re very passionate about and are proud to support the Chilterns MS Centre. Enabling individuals to maintain a sense of independence is truly admirable. “
Robert Breakwell, CEO of the charity commented “This generous donation will enable five people to have a weekly physiotherapy session for a whole year. That’s a tremendous opportunity to help local people manage and improve their symptoms, giving them the ability to keep themselves more active and independent than they would without treatment. We thank the Trust enormously for their support.”
If you would like more information about grants available from Vale of Aylesbury Housing, please call the Grants Officer, on 01296 732600. To find out more about the Chilterns MS Centre, please visit www.chilternsmscentre.org or call 01296 696133.