Meet Lauriell and the BWCPF
Background
Raising awareness of painful hidden disabilities can transform lives, and is doing just that.
Founded in May 2024, BWCPF/BRFS came from a pressing need, because of the lack of support for individuals living with severely debilitating fibromyalgia and incessant chronic pain.
What began as a small group focused solely on fibromyalgia, quickly expanded to include all types of persistent chronic pain, recognising the diverse and complex experiences of those affected.
BWCPF is jointly led by Lauriell, Corrina, and Marie. Together, this passionate trio of unpaid volunteers have ensured that BWCPF support has grown from a handful of members to over 100 members in less than a year.
Now a formally constituted organisation, BWCPF support, is listed on the leading Fibromyalgia Action UK/FMA UK website as a Regional Support Group, and is a beacon of hope for many across Birmingham and the West Midlands region.
A safe and confidential space for shared experiences
BWCPF support holds monthly meetings on the last Thursday of every month. Anyone who is living with chronic pain is welcome to attend.
Meetings are held at Harborne Baptist Church in Birmingham, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
BWCPF support meetings feature guest speakers on important topics such as:
- benefits
- medication
- self-care
- health, wellbeing, and relaxation techniques
- legal matters, such as making a will
These sessions provide vital information and emotional support, helping members navigate the complexities of severely debilitating hidden disabilities of chronic painful illnesses.
More about Lauriell's story
Lauriell, who also cares for her disabled husband, shares how being actively involved with BWCPF/BRFS with Corrina and Marie, from its inception to the constituted charitable community initiative it is today. She explains how it has also been a lifeline for her personally:
“When I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in 2018, I had never heard of it before. I felt lost, totally alone, vulnerably isolated and quite lonely. However, jointly and voluntarily managing our BWCPF support initiative with Corrina and Marie, has given me a uniquely proactive BWCPF community, a valuable singular focus, and genuine purpose in assisting others, who like me, need advocate voices as they are also fighting battles daily with such incessant, excruciating chronic pain.”
More about BWCPF
Our members
BWCPF support members come from all walks of life, across Birmingham and the entire West Midlands region, bringing together a rich tapestry of experiences.
Some have lived with chronic pain for decades, while others are newly diagnosed.
Yet, it is this wealth of diversity within BWCPF, which fosters a genuinely safe and supportive environment where everyone learns together, and from one another.
Grassroots growth and outreach
With limited funding available, BWCPF support has been mostly self-financed with charity fundraising events and a couple of micro-grants.
BWCPF support has actively promoted its mission through:
- posters
- leaflets
- charity cake bake sales and auctions
- charity quiz nights
- table top and car boot events
BWCPF's support at events like our Shaping Birmingham Future Together Marketplaces has helped:
- raise awareness
- connect with wider communities
Looking ahead: our dreams and aspirations
BWCPF support envisions a future where no one feels alone in their pain. Our goals include:
- increasing our offerings and portfolio of proactive support services
- raising awareness by expanding the BWCPF online presence through social media
- giving invaluable insight into living with chronic pain on
- endeavouring to work with many more:
- UK charities
- West Midlands councils and businesses
- community organisations throughout West Midlands
- launching a 24-hour BWCPF Support Helpline for all chronic pain sufferers living in West Midlands area
- working towards becoming a registered charity
Join the BWCPF support movement
BWCPF support welcomes individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Whether you:
- are living with chronic pain
- caring for someone who is
- simply want to learn more
The BWCPF support community provides:
- connection
- validation
- understanding
- genuine empowerment
Our BWCPF motto states:
“With BWCPF support: whether just surviving or in crisis – you are not alone!!”
Contact us
Email: bham.westmids.chronic.pain@gmail.com
Website: