The results
Why is Brigstowe unique?
"We don't just make statements - we make things happen"
Brigstowe achieves results. We give advice, but also help our clients do things that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. For example, completing forms, making phone calls and following doctor's orders. This may seem simple but some people couldn't visit their clinic, claim rights to asylum, or sometimes even buy food, without the help and encouragement that we give.
We can't quantify how much public money, time and effort our work saves the council, NHS and Government but it clearly does.
If someone with HIV doesn't take their drugs, minor infections can mean hospital. Helping people stick to their medication therefore saves NHS costs. If they can't pay their rent or get evicted, the council may need to house them, costing thousands. If we help them claim what they're entitled to, budget and pay rent, that council house can go to someone in greater need. These are the hidden benefits and cost-savings Brigstowe achieves. They also mean our clients have a better quality of life and contribute more actively to their communities.
Statistics
Some statistics/ Facts and Figures:
(Figures are correct at December 2009)
- 176: the number of people we worked with this year. (FS 39 + 15 HM + 122 Advice)
- £250,000: the total additional income we secured for all clients this year.
- 27: the number of clients with 'no recourse to public funds' we helped this year.
- 208: the number of hours volunteers contributed to help run the organisation.
- 14: the number of years Brigstowe has been supporting people with HIV in Bristol.
- 81: the percentage of project expenditure on direct charitable activities.
This is what our clients say about us
Annual reports
Our latest annual report is available as pdf file HERE or from our detailed profile on the Charity Commission Website.