Reading, Wokingham & Districts MS Society

The Multiple Sclerosis Society is the UK's largest organisation dedicated to supporting the 85,000 people who have MS. Through its branches, it provides local support to anyone affected by MS, including those with MS, carers, family and friends.

The Reading, Wokingham and Districts Branch was formed 50 years ago in 1962, and covers not only these two towns but also the surrounding area, extending west to Pangbourne, north to South Oxfordshire and south to Tadley.

We raise funds to provide a range of services to those people affected by MS and, being run by volunteers, all the money raised goes directly to help those affected by MS. Typically, we need to raise £75,000 each year to do all these things.

Some examples of the services we provide are:

Information About MS

One of the things that people affected by MS want most is accurate and up-to-date information about the disease itself, about living with it and about what help is available. We have leaflets about all kinds of issues affecting people with MS, from symptom management to employment issues. We also run information events featuring guest speakers.

Welfare and Support

Our trained support team provides a friendly ear, help with welfare matters, advice about living with MS and helps people to obtain other local services.

Transport

We have two Kangoo vehicles, specially adapted to carry wheelchairs, available for loan free of charge.

Financial Support

We provide grants for equipment and adaptations to help people with MS.

Regular Newsletters

Branch members receive a regular newsletter keeping them up to date with services, events and activities in our area. Members also receive MS Matters, the Society's bi-monthly magazine featuring interesting articles and interviews about living with MS.

Social Activities

We have a weekly Drop In, where people can meet socially, have computer lessons and listen to guest speakers. We arrange regular tea parties and other social events throughout the year. The carer's group meets regularly for various social events

Volunteers

The Branch is run entirely by volunteers and we always welcome anyone who can help us help people affected by MS. If you can spare even a few hours a month, we'd love to hear from you. We provide training and support to all our volunteers. If you can help, please call:

0118 931 1017 or 0118 986 2591.

The Multiple Sclerosis Society.
MS National Centre, 372 Edgware Road, London NW2 6ND.
Telephone 020 8438 0700 Facsimile 020 8438 0701