Andrew Scott tells about how his life changed in unexpected ways following his MS diagnosis but he is confident he will receive the best support and treatment possible from the Chilterns Neuro Centre, both now and in the future.
Become a Member
New Members Welcome
Your MS, Parkinson’s or stroke isn’t who you are. It’s not on your insta profile. It’s not how you introduce yourself. On good days you can forget you have it. People around you may not even notice. It doesn’t define you.
At the Chilterns Neuro Centre we focus on keeping it that way. We can’t change your diagnosis but we can meet you on the journey, and help you keep life going in the direction you want. Our purpose-built Centre offers a number of therapies including physio, Pilates, hydrotherapy, talking therapy and oxygen treatment.
You’ll meet others on their own journey – and get plenty of advice on days out, benefit payments, and the best cake at the café.
Then you’ll head back out into the world, recharged and ready to think about the things that really matter. Work. Hobbies. Friends. Planning your next holiday. What colour you think you might paint the living room walls.
With our help, we’ll make you a little less about your condition, a little more you.
The Centre is a fantastic support to have nearby. You feel that you’re supported and that finally there’s someone who understands what you need.
Barbara
Benefits of becoming a member
Whether you have a neurological condition yourself, or you are a family member or carer of someone who has, everyone is welcome to become a member of the Centre.
Even if you feel well, there are still plenty of classes and workshops that you can attend. Studies have shown that early intervention can help to minimise the effects of some symptoms and can enable you to manage them so that you can continue everyday life as fully and as normally as possible.
Membership is just £25 per year. For this you can:
- Access therapy that may not be available on the NHS for more than a few weeks.
- Take part in exercise classes specifically designed for people with MS, Parkinson’s or stroke survivors.
- Receive support and practical advice for living with the day to day effects of MS, Parkinson’s and strokes.
- Meet others in a similar situation and form a support network.
- Access workshops on a number of topics from how to manage fatigue, healthy diet, practical wheelchair courses or emotional wellbeing..
- Be signposted to additional support services.
- Receive a regular newsletter to find out what’s going on at the Centre, fundraising events and much more.
Whilst we don’t make an additional charge for any of our treatments, classes or workshops, we do encourage people to make a regular donation if they can. Receiving these treatments privately would be very costly, but asking for donations enables everyone to have access to the treatment and support they need.
How to become a member?
Complete a membership enquiry form and, once we’ve received it, we will send you the appropriate paperwork and invite you for an assessment. Assessment appointments are normally offered within 2-4 weeks of receiving a referral. We have a range of appointment times available, from 8.30am to 6pm. You will need to bring with you some form of evidence of your condition such as a letter from your neurologist or GP.
Treatment can start within a few weeks following your assessment so the process is quite quick. During your assessment, we will talk to you about your symptoms and your goals, and assess the best course of treatment or support for you at that time.
You will be given a bespoke treatment plan and may be referred to some of our services such as physio, oxygen, counselling, occupational therapy or complementary therapy. You can also attend any of our workshops or social groups.
Family and carers can become members too, without the need for a referral, as long as the person with the neurological condition has become a member of the Centre. They can then access all of our advice and workshops. They can also have some treatments and therapies, such as counselling and physiotherapy. Find out more here.
Common Membership Questions
What if I cannot get to you during working hours?
If you are working full time, or simply don’t want to attend on a regular basis that’s fine. Whatever your situation we are here for you whenever you need us.
We also have an Early Bird exercise class, as well as pre-recorded classes on our YouTube channel for you to follow at a time to suit you. All we ask is that you chat with our exercise therapist to work out the best classes to suit your needs.
When does the membership year start?
The membership year runs from 1 January to 31 December.
What are the subscription charges?
Annual Subscription: £25.00
Subscription from 01 July: £12.50
Subscription from 1 November: Not required if the full subscription is paid for the following year at the time of joining.
How can I pay for my membership?
Visit our payments page to to pay your fees online or find out how else you can pay your fees. We encourage everyone who becomes a member to set up a Direct Debit.
How do I renew my membership?
Membership renewal letters are sent out in November. Payment is required by 10 February at the latest. Membership will lapse after this date.
Who do I contact about membership?
If you have any questions about membership please contact Jo Kendall, Office Manager:
jokendall@chilternsneurocentre.org
Telephone: 01296 696133
Members Stories
A chance encounter leads to a new hope
Sven Kuster originally came across the Chilterns Neuro Centre by chance and has since become a huge advocate for the wonderful staff, beneficial programmes, encouragement and support he receives.
Getting in control of exercise
Leigh Gordine considers himself lucky to have found the Chilterns Neuro Centre so soon after his MS diagnosis. Read more of his story to find out how Pilates has helped him to live life to the full!