Multiple Sclerosis Society of Great Britain

Multiple Sclerosis Society
Abbreviation MS Society
Formation 1953
Legal status Charitable Organization
Purpose To stop MS
Headquarters London
Location
  • UK
Membership
32,000
Official language
English
Chief Executive
 Michelle Mitchell
Staff
265
Volunteers
5,500
Website http://www.mssociety.org.uk/
Remarks 270+ local groups

The MS Society is a charitable organisation with Charitable Company status. The MS Society funds research and support for those affected by multiple sclerosis. The society is currently (2012) involved with the Neurological Alliance, and other charities in campaigning against changes to the Welfare System in the UK.[1]

History

The MS Society was founded in 1953 by Richard Cave, whose wife, Mary, had MS.

Activities

The MS Society is the UK's largest charity for people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). It is a membership organisation, with c.32,000 members (2017), made up of people living with MS.

The MS Society has a network of branches (approximately 270) and 5,500 volunteers, who help to raise awareness and funds for the Society, both locally and nationally.

MS Society activities include:

  • funding MS research into cure, cause and quality of life,[2] including animal experimentation;[3] since 1956 the MS Society has invested approximately £136 million of today’s money in research.
  • providing grants (financial assistance) to individuals
  • education and training on MS to those affected directly and to health professionals
  • producing publications on MS: Publications downloads
  • running a freephone specialist MS Helpline (0808 800 8000)
  • providing local support groups through a branch and region network
  • organising events such as MS Life, Multiple Challenge and Living with MS, designed to be educational and social events.

The MS Society receives most of its income from personal donations. It also raises money through sponsored events.

The charity has a Research Strategy Committee chaired by Brian Meaden. The MS Society recognises the need for systematic reviews of existing pre-clinical research as well as clinical research, about which the charity SABRE Research UK raises awareness.

In 2010, the MS Society Chair Tony Kennan received an OBE in the 2011 New Year Honours.

References

  1. ↑ "UK Government Welfare Reform".
  2. ↑ "MS Society - Funded research".
  3. ↑ "MS Society policy - animal research | Multiple Sclerosis Society UK". www.mssociety.org.uk. Retrieved 2016-10-24.
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