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Digesting the facts about MS

Have you ever wondered how to explain MS to children? We started to realise, from listening at ‘Newly Diagnosed’ events, how daunting talking about MS at home can be for both parents and children. There was a real need for us to support our community by helping them explain MS to children in an age-appropriate, fun and educational way.

The fluctuating nature of MS, with no two people experiencing the same symptoms, makes it difficult to explain. But, fortunately, the team at Bart’s, Queen Mary University of London, had already developed some resources that helped us address this. They devised Digesting Science — an interactive session for 6-12 year olds, with five activities presenting MS symptoms in a fun, interactive way.

Digesting Science helps people affected by MS start a conversation with their children about how MS affects them, and provides a safe space for the children to ask questions. It teaches children about the science behind MS and allows them to experience some of the symptoms a relative might be living with.

Our team of Regional Development Officers (RDOs) were trained to deliver Digesting Science sessions in face-to-face workshops within the community. They delivered six sessions in 2023, and have done five so far this year, with a further four to come. The workshops have been very well received.

One participant said: “Today has been so helpful. We were unsure what to expect. But the fun games were excellent for my family to learn about MS.”

Going digital with help from our Cambridge Group

Following the success of these workshops, we’ve partnered again with Queen Mary University London on a service innovation project to reach more children by creating a digital version — Digital Digesting Science. This offers children the opportunity to learn about MS through interactive sessions, from the comfort of their own home.

Huge thanks go to our Cambridge Group, that provided the funds to enable this to happen.

Group Coordinator, Bob Bragger, said: “Our group feel privileged to be able to contribute to young people having a greater knowledge of MS. This initiative will not only benefit children who have a parent or relative with an MS diagnosis but will also lead to a greater understanding of how the condition is managed and lived with long term.”

Get involved

Cambridge’s generous contribution has set the stage. There are opportunities for other groups to support similar projects to expand our reach — through innovative pilots, digital resources or community-based events.

If your group’s interested, we’d love to discuss how you can help bring innovative ideas to life and create lasting impact. Just get in touch at [email protected] .

Or, if you’re aware of families in your area who could benefit from a face-to-face Digesting Science workshop funded by your group in the next 12 months, let your Regional Development Officer or Community Development Officer know.