The MS Society IOW volunteers have helped and supported hundreds of people affected by the condition locally. The Multiple Sclerosis Society was first formed in London in 1953. In 1969 the Isle of Wight Group had its inaugural meeting.
In the years since then, the group has moved from strength to strength, providing some unique services for those affected by MS. The group is self-funding and receives no financial assistance from NHS or the Isle of Wight Council.
The society depends on fundraising, donations and monies left in legacies in order to continue the current services provided and hopefully expand with new and innovative ideas. The MS Society charity shop in Shanklin is the main fundraiser as well as offering a valuable source of information for anyone affected by the condition.
MS Society Centre & Charity Shop, 47 Regent Street, Shanklin, IOW PO37 7AF.
This is the contact address and main fundraising effort for the group.
Managed by Lynda Fairman and assisted by a team of approximately 30 volunteers.
All donations of quality items most gratefully accepted.
Collections can be arranged.
1: Alternative Therapy Voucher SchemeProviding alternative therapy vouchers to the value of £240 every 6 months for treatments including Acupuncture, Reflexology, Physiotherapy, Hydrotherapy, Counselling, Dietitian, Footcare and Massage using our cooperating therapists. Evidence of MS diagnosis will be initially requested.
Email: Annie.Jarrett@groups.mssociety.org.uk
2: Health and Wellbeing GrantsAwarding grants towards disability aids, equipment, short breaks, home adaptations, respite and much more. All grants are means tested. To apply contact for an application form and guidance notes. Evidence of MS diagnosis will be requested.
Email: isleofwightsupport@mssociety.org.uk
3: New Generation MSS IOW GroupA closed Facebook group offering information, signposting and a platform for confidential conversations between only those living with MS. Details of events, quizzes and group socials etc. A fun and friendly environment with likeminded folk who understand you.
Message / comment on Facebook - New Generation MSS IOW.
Email: karen.holmes@groups.mssociety.org.uk
4: Information Centre and Support ServiceThe Shanklin shop is also the main MS Society information centre on IOW (outside of the hospital) and we hold a whole range of leaflets and booklets covering all aspects of living with MS. The MS Society website has full information: www.mssociety.org.uk
Support Volunteer Tel: 07976 629012
Email: isleofwightsupport@mssociety.org.uk
5: Monthly Luncheons & varied Social Activities / EventsLuncheons are subsidised on the last Friday of each month at different venues across the island. Those with MS and a carer pays suggested donation £10 each. Social activities during each month include visits to IOW attractions, cream teas etc. These events are all advertised on IOW MS Social Media & must be prior booked.
Email: isleofwightevents@mssociety.org.uk
6: Social Media and the WebsiteVery active Facebook page posting relevant information and event details. MS Society website, offering information about MS, who we are and what we do.
Facebook: MS Society Isle of Wight
Website: www.wight-ms.org.uk
7: Friday ClubHeld 1st and 3rd Friday monthly, social lunches at Appley Manor in Ryde. This is a pay as you go event, just turn up from 11:30am, order food and drink at the bar and join the group.
Contact for this is Peter Lano.
Email: peter.lano@groups.mssociety.org.uk
8: Taxi TransportProvide assistance with transport in agreed circumstances. Pay for taxis (by each occasion with arrangement only) for those unable to transfer from their wheelchairs, in order to attend any of our social events, activities also to attend booked medical appointments.
Contact for this service: Support volunteer initially and will liaise to confirm eligibility.
Email: isleofwightsupport@mssociety.org.uk
Tel: 07976 629012
9: FundraisingWe will support anyone who has the desire to organise their own fundraising or sponsorship event. There are fundraising merchandise items at the shop including T-shirts, pens, trolley coins, bracelets, balloons etc for fundraising efforts.
Email: islefowight@mssociety.org.uk
10: Keep Active “Move More” and “Relax More” Led by Andy Savage, specialist in working with those with long term conditions.A work at your own pace, circuit based programme designed to keep active / A gentle movement and mindfulness programme designed to calm and relax the mind and body. We pay the full session costs. Various Island locations weekly.
Contact Andy Savage to arrange which location across the island is convenient.
Tel : 01983 810932 / 07779 616189
11: Weekly Yoga Led by Steph Crosby. Weekly sessions, every Monday 1.30pm – 2.30pm, (excluding school holidays). The Riverside Centre, Newport Quay. Gentle yoga, breath work, simple postures, mainly chair based or floor if desired etc.
Contact Step on 07855 474967 or email: steph.crosby@me.com
MS Society IOW Group are so proud to be able to provide these most valuable services. Please support us in any way possible to ensure its continuation.
A Big Thank You to everyone who supports us in whatever capacity.
Registered Charity Number 1139257 / SC041990
July 2024
In order to collect, use and manage your personal details, please complete the link below. This will enable us to contact you with information relating to the Isle of Wight groups services available etc.
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