Like many charities, our research programme has been affected by coronavirus. When we surveyed our grant holders at the beginning of the pandemic, more than 70% who responded reported significant disruption to their work. Clinical trials staff adapted so they could carry out follow up visits by phone. Lab workers analysed results and wrote up findings from home. And MS researchers across the world kept in touch and shared ideas virtually.

The social care system has been hit hard by the pandemic. In June, our community told us they were struggling to stay physically active, felt lonely and isolated, and often couldn’t get the care and support they needed.

We’d like to share some news with you about a change to our Executive Group. Emma Whitcombe, our Executive Director of Engagement and Income Generation, will be leaving the MS Society in December.

Emma has been with us for six and a half years, but will be moving on from the organisation to make an exciting step overseas to Sweden.

With autumn firmly upon us (don’t forget to put your clocks back tomorrow night…), we would normally be preparing to bring group volunteers together for our November Forums. This year, with so much change within the organisation on top of the pandemic, we’re having to do things differently.

As we’ve previously communicated, this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be hosted virtually on 5 December. Over the last couple of days, we’ve been busy sending out information on how to vote or attend the upcoming AGM, to all of our 26,000 members. And voting is now open until 3 December 2020.

As we continue to navigate our way through this ever-changing environment, our absolute focus throughout these changes is that we continue to be here for people living with and affected by MS for years to come.

The commitment and creativity you and our staff have shown in continuing to support your local communities in new ways has been inspiring, and we’re endlessly grateful for this.

Back in June, we were delighted to announce that our Isle of Wight Group had received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, which is the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK. Now, they finally have it in their hands.

The Island’s Lord Lieutenant and one of her deputies recently visited our shop in Shanklin to present the engraved crystal award, along with a certificate from HM The Queen. It recognises all the emotional, financial and wellbeing support the group provide to those on the Island affected by MS.

The Government in England has collaborated with charities to develop the ‘Please give me space’ symbol. This simple slogan is available as a card and badge that anyone can carry (whether or not they have a health condition) to encourage other people to socially distance. You can print it out and create your own badge or lanyard for free here.

With so much change going on, our October session focussed on our new membership offer, the reopening of face-to-face group services, and the staff restructure.

We’re not setting an agenda in advance this time, so Nick and Ed will give an update on these (and other) important topics, and then answer questions more widely.

If there’s something on your mind, join in on Zoom and tell us about it. You can also submit questions in advance.

Register for your place here.