Health & beauty > Support groups

Support groups

Age Concern, South Gloucestershire
We provide direct help to older people, offering advice, practical services and home visits. Age Concern has developed travel insurance with no upper age limit.
Volunteers are always welcome - call Sue Rider on 01454 857754. For more information, please call in at the Age Concern Office, 34 St Mary Street, Thornbury, email us using the link below or phone 01454 858750.
www.ageconcern.org.uk/AgeConcern/...
Email:

Avon-North Mencap
We are a local charity working in South Gloucestershire and Bristol with people with learning disabilities, their families and carers. We run a volunteer programme where volunteers are matched one-to-one with adults with learning disabilities. We are currently looking for volunteers (who are given training and their expenses are paid) and for people who would benefit from the service.
www.avonnorthmencap.org.uk
Email:

Bosom Buddies
If anyone has been diagnosed with breast cancer, either in the past or more recently, do get in touch. Our meetings are held in Thornbury on the third Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. It's not all doom and gloom - a problem shared is a problem halved. See calendar or call Jennie Morris on 01454 884177 for more details.

Bristol Diabetes Support Group
We are a small group of volunteers who seek to provide support, information and education for those living with, or caring for someone with diabetes. Regular meetings are held in Kingswood with Speakers giving talks and answering questions on topics of particular interest. Open to all – no membership is required.
www.diabetesbristol.org.uk

Bristol Pituitary Support Group
The group aims to provide support for patients with pituitary disorders, their families and carers. We include South Gloucestershire, and meet on the third Wednesday of every month, except July and August at The Academic Centre, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, at 7.30pm.
We are a friendly open group who have all had experience of these problems and will make new members feel very welcome.
For more information please contact our Chairman Jenny West, 3 Chipping Close, Symn Lane, Wotton-Under-Edge, Glos. GL12 7BB, 01454 843497 (home) or 07919 620498.
For publicity, please contact Jenny Fumpson, Tanglewood, 4B Highfield Drive, Redcliffe Bay, Portishead, N. Somerset, BS20 8JG, 01275 847286.

BUST - Breast Cancer Unit Support Trust
We are an independent charity that raises funds to support the work of the Breast Care Centre at Frenchay Hospital. We are also representing the interests of South Gloucestershire people in a review of Breast Care Services for Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. For more information, please contact Secretary and Trustee Daphne Havercroft using the links below.
www.bustbristol.co.uk
Email:

Cancer Research UK - Thornbury and District Committee
Cancer Research UK is the UK's leading charity dedicated to cancer research. The Thornbury and District committee holds regular fundraising events. For more information contact Betty Cain on 01453 843802.
www.cancerresearchuk.org/

Exercise on Prescription Stroke Scheme
There is an increasing need for individuals who have suffered a stroke to engage in an exercise and activity regime. The Exercise on Prescription Stroke Scheme run by South Gloucestershire Council, offers 12 weeks of one to one exercise based rehab. These sessions can help to increase strength, balance and fitness levels. Sessions take place at Yate, Longwell Green and Bradley Stoke Leisure centres on a weekly basis.

For more information please contact Ross Evans, Project Officer on 01454 864005 or by e-mail.

Email:

Fibromyalgia Syndrome Support Group
The group provides help and support to sufferers of Fibromyalgia and their families, and promotes awareness in the local community. Members receive a regular newsletter about activities. We have a comprehensive lending library of books, journals and videos relating to Fibromyalgia. Group meetings are at Alveston Methodist Church, Greenhill, Alveston, 7-9pm, on the 4th Tuesday of every month. For more details, contact Elaine on 01454 415374.
www.southglosfibro.btik.com/
Email:

GRANTnet - searching for grants
Are you looking for funding for your organisation?
GRANTnet is a service which can help to identify suitable funding and grants for activities or projects. It allows community and voluntary groups, social enterprises and small businesses to search across a huge range of funding sources.
www.southglos.gov.uk/BusinessMatt...

Hammer Out
We are a registered charity which aims to raise awareness of brain tumours and the needs of those affected by them, as well as raising money for brain and cancer related charities.
Oriel House, 8 Castle Street, Thornbury, BS35 1HB
Tel: 01454 414 355
Email:

Men's Breakfasts
Since December 2005 men in the area have been meeting monthly to discuss 'hot topics' affecting men, usually followed by a good breakfast at Shelly's in Thornbury.
Whilst the Men's Breakfasts have a Christian element to them they are open to all irrespective of their beliefs. For more information contact the Thornbury Baptist Church office on 01454 419118.
www.thornburybaptistchurch.co.uk
Email:

Mencap Social Club
Avon-North Mencap run a weekly social club for adults with learning disabilities on a Friday evening at Marlwood School. We are always looking for volunteers as well as people who would enjoy coming to the club. The club runs from 7-9pm and the club leader is Janine who can be contacted on 0777 325 0045 for further details.
www.avonnorthmencap.org.uk

Meningitis Research Foundation
Meningitis Research Foundation is a national registered charity established in 1989, and based in Thornbury. From small beginnings, it has grown into an international charity at the forefront of fighting death and disability resulting from meningitis and septicaemia.

The charity funds research to prevent meningitis and septicaemia, and to improve survival rates and outcomes. The Foundation promotes education and awareness to reduce death and disability, and gives support to people affected.

For more information, click below or call 01454 281 811.

www.meningitis.org
Email:

National Childbirth Trust
The Cotswold South branch of the NCT is run by local parents to offer support, information and friendship to expectant parents and those with babies and young children. We run antenatal courses, regular Bumps n Babies groups, Nearly New sales and various events, and provide breastfeeding support.
To book an antenatal course, please call 0844 243 7000. For more information about our branch, please click below.
www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/cotsw...

Penny Brohn Cancer Care
Penny Brohn Cancer Care (formerly Bristol Cancer Help Centre) provides complementary care, the Bristol Approach, to people living with cancer, and their loved ones. Working alongside medical treatment, this complementary approach can transform lives - giving people practical tools to improve their daily quality of life and helping to take the fear out of cancer.
www.pennybrohncancercare.org
Email:

Have a say in local health and social care.
The LINk will be a network of local people, organisations and groups that want to make health and social care services better.
The LINk’s membership is small at the moment and urgently needs people from the local community who feel strongly about local health and social care services.
For more information, please click below.
www.linksouthglos.org.uk
Email:

Sweet Peas - Breastfeeding Support
Sweetpeas Breastfeeding Support Group meets on Thursdays, 1.30 - 3pm, at Thornbury Sure Start Centre, Gillingstool. All breastfeeding mums, babies, toddlers, and older siblings are welcome. We meet to drink tea and chat, and to share our experiences. There is a midwife and a breastfeeding counsellor normally present, too. Mums experiencing difficulties are welcome, as are mums who are successfully breastfeeding and can offer support and encouragement. Contact Melanie Fraser (breastfeeding counsellor) on 01454 419811 or by email below for more info, or simply come.
Email:

Thornbury and District Stroke Support Group
Our group exists to encourage stroke sufferers with their rehabilitation by providing regular fortnightly social activities, a weekly swimming session, and fortnightly art and bowling groups. We meet on alternate Thursdays in the Jubilee Hall in Alveston during the winter months and in summer we arrange trips out by coach or car.
For further information please contact Isobel Burnham on 01454 415161 or John Forss on 01454 613644.
www.thornburystroke.co.uk
Email:

Thornbury Diabetes Support Group
We offer support, information and social events for people with diabetes living in the Thornbury area. Our activities range from fundraisers and film shows to talks and quizzes, and we occasionally go to London to see a show, or head to a pub for a meal.
For more information, call Thornbury 413038 or 884115.

Thornbury Hospital League of Friends
The Thornbury Hospital League of Friends exists to provide extra comforts for patients and staff at Thornbury Hospital. Throughout the year they hold various fundraising events, from which money raised can be used to provide extras to make life more comfortable. They also provide flowers, newspapers and magazines for the ward.
The League is very involved in plans for the future of the hospital and totally committed to the continued provision of 20 in-patient beds.
For more information, contact Shirley Holloway on 885161.
Email:

Thornbury St John Ambulance
Our volunteers are well known for the hours they spend ensuring public events are safe. We're also the leading first aid training provider in the UK and the third largest youth organisation.
The groups meet every Tuesday of the South Glos school terms in The Buckingham Room at The Chantry, and new members are always very welcome.
Badgers (5-10 years) meet 6-7pm
Cadets (10-18 years) meet 7-8.30pm
Adults (18+) meet 8.30-9.30pm
For more information, click below to email Sarah Bryant, Divisional Superintendent and Badger Sett Leader, write to Thornbury Quadrilateral Division/Thornbury Badger Sett, c/o The Chantry, 52 Castle Street, Thornbury, South Gloucestershire, BS35 1HB or call 07717 289858.
www.sja.org.uk
Email:

Thornbury Twins+ Club
We are for parents, relatives and carers of twins, triplets or more. We meet every Tuesday 1-3pm at Thornbury SureStart Children’s Centre (beside Gillingstool Primary School) to offer help and support on raising twins or more.
If you are pregnant with twins come and chat to Mums who have been in the same situation and experienced the same anxieties, get advice and buy unwanted nursery items from other mums.
Once you've had your children bring them to very safe room with lots of toys and a baby area. We offer a drink and snack (for children and Mums!) and there's always a willing hand to help. Siblings are welcome.
We send out regular newsletters on events, nights out and Nearly New Sales. We have a library of relevant books and DVDs and are affiliated to Tamba.
Once a month a health visitor comes to weigh babies and give advice. Please contact Clare on 01454 855774 or by email below for more details.
Email:

Willow Tree Centre
We offer free, unbiased support to anyone facing an unplanned pregnancy or needing help after a miscarriage, still birth or abortion. We support women and their partners as well as other family members.
We are based in Yate, but arrange appointments for people in different locations, including Thornbury. Please call our 7 day a week helpline for confidential support: 01454 324080, or click below to visit our website.
www.thewillowtreecentre.org.uk



NHS
NHS information, advice and a guide to services.
www.nhs.uk

Related events

Sunday 5th September 2010
World's Biggest Coffee Morning
10am, The Ship Inn, Thornbury Road, Alveston BS35 3LL

Supporting the World's Biggest Coffee Morning for Macmillan Support Nurses.


Wednesday 8th September 2010
Quote with a Cuppa
10am–4pm at 34 St Mary Street, Thornbury BS35 2AN

Age Concern South Gloucestershire is holding its information mornings on Wednesdays during September, to offer visitors the chance to learn about the products and services offered by Age Concern South Gloucestershire, all tailored for those in later life, in a relaxed environment over a complimentary hot drink.

Age Concern South Gloucestershire TAM offers a wide range of products and services including: Home Insurance, Motor Insurance Travel Insurance, Motor Breakdown cover, a home Energy package, Funeral Plans, LifeBook and its Personal Alarm system.

Patrick Morrissey, Trading Manager for Age Concern South Gloucestershire said: “At Age Concern South Gloucestershire we’re available to talk in person to anyone who wishes to find out about the many products and services that could help them. Whether you need a new product such as home, travel or car insurance, or want to learn about our energy tariff, how to be more energy efficient, remain independent, or even if you are thinking about organising your finances in later life, everyone is welcome to come along for an informal chat.”

For more information please pop in to Age Concern, call 01454 857754 or click below for more product information.
www.ageuk.org.uk/buy/


Thursday 9th September 2010
Fibromyalgia Syndrome Support Group Crafty Club - iris folding
10am-2pm, Lynne’s house - 15 Willoughby Close, Alveston

BYO lunch and equipment. You don’t have to be crafty just willing! For more details, contact Lynne Cullen on 01454 418882.
www.southglosfibro.btik.com
Email:


Saturday 11th September 2010
Charity Coffee Morning and Cake Stall
10am-12noon, Thornbury United Reformed Church

In aid of Hammer Out, this year's church charity.

Michael Jackson Fancy Dress Karaoke/Disco Night
7.30-midnight, Cossham Hall, Thornbury, BS35 2BJ

Costume: Make or hire - doesn't have to be expensive just most creative to win BEST MJ OF THE NITE!

Disco: a mix of latest tracks, 80s, 90s etc - always open to requests - and I have requested a good mix of MJ songs to be planted now and again =o)

Karaoke: will have a few extra MJ songs to choose from so get practising into your hairbrush!

Tickets £5 - raising money for Mundy Playing Field Equipment. Ring Helen 413898. First come first served due to capacity of hall.


Wednesday 15th September 2010
Quote with a Cuppa
10am–4pm at 34 St Mary Street, Thornbury BS35 2AN

Age Concern South Gloucestershire is holding its information mornings on Wednesdays during September, to offer visitors the chance to learn about the products and services offered by Age Concern South Gloucestershire, all tailored for those in later life, in a relaxed environment over a complimentary hot drink.

Age Concern South Gloucestershire TAM offers a wide range of products and services including: Home Insurance, Motor Insurance Travel Insurance, Motor Breakdown cover, a home Energy package, Funeral Plans, LifeBook and its Personal Alarm system.

Patrick Morrissey, Trading Manager for Age Concern South Gloucestershire said: “At Age Concern South Gloucestershire we’re available to talk in person to anyone who wishes to find out about the many products and services that could help them. Whether you need a new product such as home, travel or car insurance, or want to learn about our energy tariff, how to be more energy efficient, remain independent, or even if you are thinking about organising your finances in later life, everyone is welcome to come along for an informal chat.”

For more information please pop in to Age Concern, call 01454 857754 or click below for more product information.
www.ageuk.org.uk/buy/


Sunday 19th September 2010
Castle2Castle Cycle Challenge - The Stroke Association
The Meadow, Berkeley Castle, Berkeley

The Stroke Association is urging cyclists to take part in a 42 mile cycle ride between Berkley Castle and Chepstow Castle.

This will be the second year of the event which saw 170 people kick-start the challenge last year.

Steve Chesworth, Regional Fundraising Manager for The Stroke Association explained: “Last year was incredibly successful and we are very much looking forward to celebrating the second year of the event with even more people taking part.

“Besides the amazing scenery you can enjoy along the route, you will have the opportunity to join cyclists from a range of ages and levels of fitness and bring your friends and family too.

“It is estimated that 1,440 people in Gloucestershire will have a stroke each year and 653 people will die from stroke. By taking part in this challenge, your fundraising efforts will help us to combat stroke in people of all ages through research and campaigning and by offering support to people who have been affected.”

Regular exercise can significantly reduce your risk of stroke by helping to lower your blood pressure. High blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor for stroke.

Taking part in Castle 2 Castle challenge will not only help you to lower your risk of stroke but will also help raise funds to enable The Stroke Association to continue to offer support to people in Gloucestershire.

Participants will be offered a choice of five routes. These include a 42 mile circular course starting at either Berkeley or Chepstow Castle, a 21 mile route from either castle or a 10 mile route starting and finishing at Berkley Castle.

Places are available for a £10 registration fee (£20 for families) and participants are asked to raise a minimum of £50 (£90 per family).

For a free information pack and to register please contact the Castle 2 Castle Events team on 0117 953 1200 or email below.
www.berkeley-castle.com
Email:


Wednesday 22nd September 2010
Quote with a Cuppa
10am–4pm at 34 St Mary Street, Thornbury BS35 2AN

Age Concern South Gloucestershire is holding its information mornings on Wednesdays during September, to offer visitors the chance to learn about the products and services offered by Age Concern South Gloucestershire, all tailored for those in later life, in a relaxed environment over a complimentary hot drink.

Age Concern South Gloucestershire TAM offers a wide range of products and services including: Home Insurance, Motor Insurance Travel Insurance, Motor Breakdown cover, a home Energy package, Funeral Plans, LifeBook and its Personal Alarm system.

Patrick Morrissey, Trading Manager for Age Concern South Gloucestershire said: “At Age Concern South Gloucestershire we’re available to talk in person to anyone who wishes to find out about the many products and services that could help them. Whether you need a new product such as home, travel or car insurance, or want to learn about our energy tariff, how to be more energy efficient, remain independent, or even if you are thinking about organising your finances in later life, everyone is welcome to come along for an informal chat.”

For more information please pop in to Age Concern, call 01454 857754 or click below for more product information.
www.ageuk.org.uk/buy/


Saturday 25th September 2010
St Peter's Hospice Last Night of the Proms
7.30pm, Armstrong Hall, Thornbury

St Peters Hospice Severnside Support Group in association with The Thornbury Orchestra and the choir of Goode Companye would be delighted to welcome you to Thornbury's very own Last Night of the Proms.

Bar available, bring your own nibbles, and don’t forget your union jack, promenaders especially welcome for the second half of the concert.

Tickets available from 417543 or 415648 are priced at £5.00, please don’t delay this will be a memorable evening. Part of the celebrations of 25 years of the Severnside Support Group.

All proceeds to St Peters Hospice, your local Hospice.
Email:


Tuesday 28th September 2010
Fibromyalgia Syndrome Support Group
7-9pm, Alveston Methodist Church Hall

Acupuncture
The group provides help and support to sufferers of Fibromyalgia and their families in South Gloucestershire. Group meetings are on the fourth Tuesday of every month. For more details, contact Elaine on 01454 415374.
www.southglosfibro.btik.com


Wednesday 29th September 2010
Quote with a Cuppa
10am–4pm at 34 St Mary Street, Thornbury BS35 2AN

Age Concern South Gloucestershire is holding its information mornings on Wednesdays during September, to offer visitors the chance to learn about the products and services offered by Age Concern South Gloucestershire, all tailored for those in later life, in a relaxed environment over a complimentary hot drink.

Age Concern South Gloucestershire TAM offers a wide range of products and services including: Home Insurance, Motor Insurance Travel Insurance, Motor Breakdown cover, a home Energy package, Funeral Plans, LifeBook and its Personal Alarm system.

Patrick Morrissey, Trading Manager for Age Concern South Gloucestershire said: “At Age Concern South Gloucestershire we’re available to talk in person to anyone who wishes to find out about the many products and services that could help them. Whether you need a new product such as home, travel or car insurance, or want to learn about our energy tariff, how to be more energy efficient, remain independent, or even if you are thinking about organising your finances in later life, everyone is welcome to come along for an informal chat.”

For more information please pop in to Age Concern, call 01454 857754 or click below for more product information.
www.ageuk.org.uk/buy/


Thursday 30th September 2010
Oldbury Fun Run Sponsorship Prizes Deadline

We hope Oldbury Fun Runners are busy collecting sponsorship for CLIC Sargent and other causes. It would be fantastic if every runner could raise at least £5.
Remember as soon as you have reached your targets to return monies and forms to the address on the back of the form. If you wish to donate money you can always go to our web site below.
There is no closing date for money returns, but in order to qualify for the sponsorship prizes, you’ll need to send it all in by September 30th.
www.oldburyfunrun.co.uk



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