CHRONIC PAIN SUPPORT GROUP (CPSG) established in 2009, the first formal self-help group in Suffolk for people affected by chronic pain. CPSG is run for patients in chronic pain and run solely by patients with chronic pain. Our main objectives are to bring people together who are suffering and living with this debilitating condition within a ‘safe’ environment, to be able to share concerns and ideas, build friendships and obtain up-to-date information about handling their pain.
Our group is designed to encompass all needs for all age ranges (18+) and genders. We have a very relaxed attitude-it’s all about feeling comfortable with others and sharing time together. We understand the difficulties of living in pain and the lack of support once formal treatment has finished. Patients gain a considerable amount from being able to meet people in similar circumstances.
CPSG is a warm, welcoming friendly group who give support; being supported are what we are all about. Seeing the person is our main focus, not their condition. The atmosphere created is a warm-hearted sociable blend to encourage positive feelings and for you to know, you are not alone. Offering support and education to our members helps them to feel less isolated and more able to cope with their condition(s). With the aim of helping patients to help themselves and learn how to lead an active life in spite of their pain.
As a group we offer: –
12 monthly meetings a year with guest speakers
Quarterly newsletter/on-line community
Monthly coffee mornings and crafting sessions
Awareness in the community & signposting
Friendship with likeminded people
A change of focus
A craft to suit you
We give you the opportunity to: –
Take a step forward
Reach out to others in your position
Focus on the positive
Be accepted as you are
Keep in touch during the bad times
Improve your wellbeing
Patients have commented on the relief felt knowing that they are not alone, someone is always there to offer support and social interaction is invaluable. The values the group offers are very important and equally vital to patients in their day to day lives.
Monthly meetings are held on the third Thursday from 2pm to 4pm in the small hall at Southgate Community Centre. Meetings include speaker presentations in the first hour followed by a social get together over refreshments in the second hour. Speakers vary from being pain related to non-pain related to being interactive, light-hearted and fun. Meetings are relaxed and informal for both those living in pain and their loved ones. Carers are welcome too. Our members are there for each other and we do our best to ensure meetings run smoothly and are enjoyable to attend.
By joining the group, you become a member which gives you entitlement to be involved throughout, a vested interest and participation in all group activities.
Our quarterly newsletter keeps all members connected, up-to-date and informed.
Being a self-funding community group, we rely on our own fundraising and community support by engaging with people in the local community and attending events in and around the Bury St Edmunds area.
You do not need a referral to join us just drop in to any one of our meetings and see if it is for you. If you would like to become a member a small annual subscription is payable or if you would just like to come as a visitor a nominal fee is payable. Either way you will receive a warm welcome.
For more details call 07724 187774 or email info@chronicpainsupportgroup.co.uk or visit www.chronicpainsupport.co.uk
BRINGING PEOPLE IN PAIN TOGETHER