Photo by Annie Spratt

Bridge Health & Wellbeing is pleased to announce that they have chosen Chill Dorset as their charity for 2024.

Chill Therapy Bournemouth is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing sea swimming courses as a form of therapy for adults with long-term mental or physical health conditions, including anxiety, depression and cancer. Trained coaches offer structured and supportive gentle courses to introduce people to the therapeutic benefits of spending time in the sea. So far, over 80 participants have benefited from the course, with some amazing success stories of individuals who have managed to get back into work, rediscovered a love of physical activity, and benefitted from reduced pain and improved mental health.

Louise O’Connell, co-founder and Pilates teacher at Bridge Health & Wellbeing, said, “This year, we were keen to support a small, local charity which is making a difference to people right here in Christchurch. Chill operates from Avon Beach, which is just minutes from the clinic, and we have a personal connection with one of the volunteers. It’s amazing to hear her talk about what a difference their support makes.”

Jo Cox, experienced cold water swimmer and volunteer Coach at Chill, said, “We are incredibly grateful to Bridge & Health Wellbeing for choosing us as their charity of the year. We rely on donations from local companies, other charities and organisations like Active Dorset to be able to make a difference in local people’s lives.”

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A collection box is situated in the reception, and clients are invited to make whatever donations they can throughout the year. The team is also planning to hold some additional fundraising events.

Last year, the clinic supported Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. Having been surprised to discover that the air ambulance was not part of the NHS or government-funded and relied on public support to fund its service, they were keen to help support this vital, life-saving local charity.

Bridge Health & Wellbeing provides physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment, sports massage, rehabilitation services, Pilates and yoga classes from their state-of-the-art fitness space on Bridge Street in Christchurch, Dorset. Their team of experts can help you get better, build strength and feel happy and healthy in your mind and body.

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