A Warm Welcome at the Bracken Trust’s New Brecon Hub
By Karen Greenough
I recently had the pleasure of attending the official opening of the Bracken Trust’s new Brecon Hub, an inspiring space dedicated to supporting those affected by cancer and Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Located within the Kensington Baptist Church in Brecon, the building offers everything the Bracken Trust needs to provide their holistic services.
The atmosphere is warm and reassuring. A comfortable sitting room offers a private space where the experienced support nurses can carry out initial assessments, talk through concerns, provide support and advice and plan therapies and activities with new members and their carers. There is also a dedicated room for the various complementary therapies available, ensuring each visitor receives care in a peaceful and appropriate setting.
The Bracken Trust offers support not only to patients but also to their families, carers, and those who have been bereaved through cancer or MND. Their services are completely free and tailored to each individual, recognising that everyone’s journey and needs are unique.
During my visit, I had the chance to sit down with CEO Lisa Griffiths over a cup of tea and a slice of cake (from an impressive selection!). The room was filled with people chatting, smiling, and enjoying the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Volunteers and staff busied themselves between making refreshments and joining conversations. Voluntary donations are always welcomed.
The Brecon Hub will run twice a month, on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, starting from 8th April. New visitors begin their journey with a holistic health needs assessment conducted by one of the support nurses. This helps identify which therapies or services might be most beneficial, ensuring that support is personalised and meaningful to the member or carer.
The range of therapies available is extensive, including massage, reflexology, acupuncture, and the Bowen technique. One particularly notable offering is a personalised scar therapy, provided by the therapist, Linda. This treatment can significantly reduce the pain and discomfort associated with surgical scars, offering much-needed relief for many patients.
In addition to therapies, the Bracken Trust provides a variety of other services such as counselling, relaxation and mindfulness classes, group exercise activities including Yoga and Tai Chi and education programmes, gardening club, wig support, and practical signposting to additional resources. Their holistic approach ensures that both physical and emotional wellbeing are supported.
Therapist Linda with the Mayor of Brecon
Behind the scenes, the organisation is powered by a small but dedicated team of staff, nurses, counsellors, therapists and an incredible group of around 65 volunteers. Many of these volunteers have personal connections to the service, having used it themselves or supported loved ones through illness. They all play vital roles across the organisation, from welcoming visitors at centres and outreach hubs in Llanidloes, Brecon, and Knighton, to helping in the charity shop in Llandrindod, assisting at fundraising events, and maintaining the surrounding gardens. The Trust is also fortunate to have the Bracken Singers who fundraise for the Trust at many events throughout the year.
Looking ahead, there are also exciting plans to introduce a “Men’s Shed” on site at the Bracken Trust Centre, a safe, supportive space where men can share experiences and connect with others.
For anyone seeking support, looking to volunteer, or simply wanting to learn more, the Bracken Trust encourages people to get in touch via their website, email, or phone.
you can fill in a form on their website by clicking here
Or email: info@brackentrust.org.uk
Or call: 01597 823646