I hope you’ve managed to have a restful break and that you and your families are safe and well.
In usual circumstances, it would be appropriate to wish you all a very happy New Year. However, after the Government’s announcement of another UK-wide lockdown, following national lockdown announcements in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, I feel there’s a need for a different message this year.
I understand the news of another lockdown will be unsettling. For many of you, it may raise new questions, so we’ll keep the information on coronavirus and MS regularly updated on our website here. If you have concerns about shielding, you can find the latest advice here.
Last year, I was inspired to see how those of you who were able to, continued to provide vital support to people affected by MS. From campaigning on the issues which mattered most to people living with MS, to supporting on the Helpline, running local groups, fundraising and so much more. We couldn’t have done it without you. This time, we have the experience and knowledge of a lockdown that we didn’t have back in March 2020. I take great comfort knowing that we have your continued support.
Our planned January restart of some group face-to-face activities has, of course, had to be put on hold. We’ll review the situation as lockdown is eased in each nation.
Support
We’ll do everything we can to support you, so we can be here for our community in these difficult times.
Our Helpline is always there to offer emotional support and information to anyone affected by MS. You can contact them (9am-7pm Monday to Friday) via phone on 0808 800 8000 or by email on [email protected].
If you’re a group volunteer, do remember that our Volunteer Support Team are here to answer any questions you may have. You can contact them (9am-7pm Monday to Friday) by emailing [email protected] or by phone on 0300 500 8084 – option #3.
[JULY 2021 UPDATE - VST hours now changed to 9-5 Mon-Fri.]
If you’re a Group Coordinator or Support Volunteer in need of some support yourself as you help others, just drop our Support & Wellbeing Facilitator, Barbara Sujecka, an email on [email protected].
If you’re a volunteer in other areas of our volunteering programme (Helpline, Fundraising, Research Network, Campaigning, etc) please contact your relevant Volunteer Manager for any support you may require.
The reality of another lockdown is a challenging prospect, but we’ve got through it before and we can do it again. The coming weeks and months will continue to be tough, but the new vaccines give us real hope for the future. If you’d like to play a part in the mammoth task of vaccinating the nations, you can find out about NHS volunteering opportunities here. If you have questions about vaccines and MS, take a look at the advice we’ve had from leading health professionals here.
Stay safe and look after both your physical and mental health. If you’re seeking motivation to be more active in 2021, then our ‘Living Well’ webinar on 14 January could help. Our Digital Physical Activities Specialist will explore strategies to help find what works for you, and offer tips on how to develop an exercise routine and where to get support when you need it. You can register for the event here.
Thanks for all you’re doing and continue to do.
Best wishes,
Nick.
Nick Moberly
CEO
MS Society
