It’s an early Volunteer Newsletter from us this month because it’s Volunteers’ Week – a chance to celebrate the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering in their communities.

I wanted to use this as an opportunity to personally thank you, on behalf of everyone at the MS Society, for everything you do to support people affected by MS.

Hi! My name’s Simeon Corfield and I’ve been a Shop Volunteer in the Altrincham shop for about nine months.

What’s the story of your mug?

I bought it during a day out in Marlow, Oxfordshire as I wanted to support a local artist.

What’s your go-to hot beverage?

Always Tea!

Where do you usually volunteer?

I volunteer in the Altrincham shop. Before that I used to volunteer for a Hospice charity in Canterbury after I finished work as a Headteacher/University lecturer.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is meant to support the everyday realities of living with MS - the things that make independent living possible.

From getting washed and dressed, to preparing food, keeping on top of the house, or being able to meet a friend for a cup of tea - PIP helps cover the extra costs that make day-to-day life work for many people with MS.

But too often, PIP doesn’t reflect that reality.

We've launched our MS Diagnosis Survey, which will shape multiple projects across the organisation.

We want to understand the experiences, needs, barriers, and gaps in support faced by people when they are diagnosed with MS.

Insights will help us:

Now that all volunteers have access to Assemble, here are a few helpful tips and answers to common questions.

All volunteers have been given access to Assemble. If you haven’t yet logged in, please do take a look around. Assemble is replacing the Volunteer Website, which is being taken offline at the end of this month. You’ll therefore need to access Assemble for all important information, guidance and news relating to your role.

Our MS Help Hub is a national service that supports around 20,000 enquiries every year, providing trusted information and emotional support to people living with MS, their families, friends and carers.

We’re looking for compassionate and supportive volunteers to join our national team and help ensure no one has to face MS alone.

As a home-based MS Help Hub Volunteer, you’ll provide emotional support and practical information through telephone conversations. You’ll help people access services, resources, and support in a welcoming, non-judgemental environment.

Yesterday, the Minister for Women and Equalities laid an updated draft EHRC Code of Practice on Services, Public Functions and Associations before Parliament. This follows last year’s Supreme Court ruling that the definition of a woman under the Equality Act should be based on biological sex.

We’re pleased to share that all volunteers now have access to our new volunteer management system, Assemble.