The Helios Foundation

The Helios Foundation is a UK-registered charity with a focus on holistic healthcare. It aims to improve the quality of life for marginalized and deprived individuals in London who are dealing with chronic health conditions, including those related to HIV and AIDS.

Mission and Vision

The mission of The Helios Foundation is to provide comprehensive holistic health services to people on low incomes who are facing chronic physical and emotional challenges. Its vision is to enhance the quality of life for marginalized people living with chronic illnesses, fostering transformation and fuller life experiences.

Services

The foundation offers a range of holistic healthcare sessions and talking therapies. These services include:

• Talking Therapies: One-to-one confidential sessions for individuals experiencing stressful or traumatic events, aimed at improving mental health and facilitating independence.
• Complementary Healthcare: Uses a whole-person approach to balance mind, body, and emotions. This helps individuals cope better with long-term conditions and manage certain symptoms.
• Holistic Therapies: Provides access to private holistic therapies, primarily on evenings and weekends, but also at other times.

Client Group

The main client group includes people living with HIV for long durations and those with advanced HIV who might otherwise lack access to holistic therapies. The foundation also supports community integration by offering opportunities to become volunteers or participate in social events, reducing isolation and enhancing social bonding.

Funding

The Helios Foundation receives support from various funders, including private foundations, grants, and individual donations. Key supporters include The Mac Foundation, The Branson Family, Garfield Weston, National Lottery Community Fund, London Catalyst, Clothworkers Foundation, and private donors.

Approach

The foundation employs a dual approach, addressing both physical and psychological aspects of health. By providing subsidized holistic therapies and support at accessible rates, it ensures that low-income individuals can benefit from services tailored to their needs.

Operational Developments

The Helios Centre has been transitioning between locations, recently operating from temporary premises in Kilburn while preparing for a new permanent site in Holborn. It has also been engaged in fundraising efforts to support the development of its new centre.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helios_Foundation [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5051522 [3] https://helioscentre.org.uk [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5051522/contact-information [5] https://helioscentre.org.uk/aboutus/