Medical

As an independent charitable provider, we have a responsibility to ensure the transparency of our work. Medical, social and educational professionals involved with our children and families are assured that the Brainwave Programme consists of exercises in current mainstream practice carried out by trained staff from the professions of physiotherapy, psychology and education.

As an independent organisation, Brainwave has the advantage of being able to unite the disciplines into taking a fully integrated approach towards a child's development.

Brainwave helps children, between the ages of 6 months to 12 years, who have a brain injury, genetic condition or Developmental Delay.

The Brainwave Programme, based on the conventions of neuroplasticity, aims to develop the maximum potential of each child. In taking an integrated approach to a child's physical and cognitive development we also aim to enhance a child's social skills and emotional well-being.

The main principles incorporated to improve motor performance are to encourage patterns of normal movement, inhibit abnormal movement patterns and reduce the effect of increased muscle tone.

Where specific areas are identified (vision, hearing, speech, comprehension, sequencing problems, poor concentration span, socialisation, etc.) children will be provided with special cognitive techniques. These are designed into a structured and manageable series so the combination of physical and cognitive exercises complement one another.

As we believe the family home is where children respond best with the people whose love and care is unparalleled, our therapists teach parents how to carry out each exercise, in what order, for how long, and why. Parents are provided with a written and visual record of each exercise to take home and their manual and DVD is refreshed at each four - six month Reassessment. Each Programme is designed to be carried out over a 30 minute period and no family is asked to spend more than 10 hours carrying out therapy in any one week.

All equipment required for the Programme, such as rolls, wedges and vestibular boards, is despatched to the family home on their departure from the Centre, at no cost to the family.

Brainwave provides two full days for an Initial Assessment in which families are encouraged to discuss their particular situation with the assigned team of therapists in the relaxed environment of our Centres. These discussions are previously informed by the medical information received from the Consultant, GP and other mainstream providers nominated by the family and we encourage close co-operation with all parties involved in the child's development.

We listen carefully to family experiences and situations during discussions and guidance is provided on how to establish a successful Programme, taking into account the need for structured time, and the organisation of help where needed.

Our therapy team is constantly available to families via phone calls and email, and our team of Regional Family Co-ordinators provide ongoing local support to families. The Co-ordinators provide a listening ear, assist in sourcing volunteer help, and continually research up-to-date local and national helpful information to families with a child with disabilities. They also invite families to socialise together through organising events at local venues. This ensures that families are freer and happier to focus more time and energy into helping their child reach their maximum potential.

Costs:

The total cost of providing therapy for a child is around £3,000 a year. Families are asked to contribute £450 for an two-day Initial Assessment and £250 for a one-day Reassessment.

No child is refused on the basis of costs. In cases of hardship, our Fundraising Department will liaise with families.