A big year for Saltney based Neuro Therapy Centre as the charity gets set to celebrate its 35th anniversary

The Neuro Therapy Centre, based in Saltney, will be celebrating its 35^th anniversary in 2020 – with lots of events and fundraising ideas throughout the year.

 The charity was first formed in 1985 to support people with MS by offering Oxygen Therapy – its four founders were people who either had the condition or were Carers of people with the condition.

Over the years it has expanded its support into a wide range of therapies including physiotherapy, gym facilities and counselling, as well as a social space where people can meet and support each other.

In 2011 the Centre also increased the number of conditions it supports to embrace a wider range of neurological conditions including Parkinson’s Disease, Fibromylagia, Motor Neurone Disease and ME.

 “The Centre has evolved over the years and we make sure that we keep embracing change to meet the needs of people with neurological conditions and their Carers.

The inspiration of our four founding members is always with us and ensures that we continue to provide a professional and friendly service to those who need us,” said Jane Johnston-Cree, Centre Director at the Neuro Therapy Centre.

“The long-term degenerative conditions we support can stop people in their tracks, leaving them without hope and having to change their lives dramatically. We are here to encourage and support a life after diagnosis and the supportive nature and caring atmosphere at our Centre shines through – it’s the first thing that people notice when they walk through the door.”

 The Centre will be using its anniversary year to raise awareness of its work throughout the region, across North Wales, Cheshire and the Wirral.

 Jane added: “We are the only Centre of our kind in this region, so it is important that we reach as many people as we can who can benefit from our services.

Therefore, we are encouraging everyone that can help us spread the word about our services to do so – whether that be employers supporting their employees, partner organisations, GPs and friends and neighbours.

We want 2020 to be a landmark year for the Centre and we’re keen to hear from anyone that can support us.”

 The charity has also planned several fundraising events to mark the special year, two of which start in January.

The Centre is encouraging people to get sponsored to give up their bad habits for the month of January and join them in taking part in their ‘Banuary’ campaign.

“We’re excited to hear what people are going to give up,” said Shannah Goodrick, Events and Volunteer Co-ordinator at the Neuro Therapy Centre.

“Chocolate is a popular one so far along with alcohol, we’ve also heard mention of people being tempted to give up Netflix binges for the month.

Whatever people choose it’s great to know that they can use this opportunity to raise funds for our work and perhaps it may even lead to a permanent lifestyle change.”

 The Centre’s second fundraising campaign to start in January will be their ‘Virtual Voyage’ where people can sign-up to ‘travel’ part of the distance between the Centre and Tokyo in time for the launch of the Paralympics on 25^th August.

“We’re really excited about this one,” said Shannah.

“The distance is 5897 miles, so it’s going to be quite a challenge, but with as many people as possible contributing to cover the distance I’m sure we’ll make it.

People can choose how they wish to take part whether that is through swimming, walking, running, rowing, cycling or something else.”

 The Centre also has plans including a golf day, charity auction, and their largest ever fashion show during their celebration year – with more to be announced.

 People wanting to find out more about the Neuro Therapy Centre, its services, or its fundraising events can visit the Neuro Therapy Centre’s website atwww.neurotherapycentre.org or call 01244 678619.