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.

How the IOW Group assists those affected by MS.

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 are most gratefully accepted. Collections can be arranged.

Providing 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.
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Email: Annie.Jarrett@groups.mssociety.org.uk

2: Keep Active “Move More”, “Relax More” & “Balance Better”

Led by Andy Savage, specialist in working with those with long term conditions.

Andy offers these 3 different classes:

1) A work at your own pace, circuit based program designed to keep active
(Keep Active, Move More).


2) A gentle movement and mindfulness program designed to calm and relax the mind and body
(Keep Active, Relax More)

3) A class to strengthen and improve balance
(Keep Active, Balance Better).

Various Island locations throughout the week.


We fund the full session cost for you to attend up to 2 different classes per week.

Contact Andy Savage to arrange which location across the island and class is most suitable and convenient for you.

Tel : 01983 810932 / 07779 616189

3: Seated blended Yoga and Pilates Class

A weekly gentle class that combines the core-strengthening benefits of Pilates with the gentle stretches, breathing techniques and relaxation of Yoga.

It can help improve posture, flexibility, balance, mobility and overall wellbeing. The seated format makes it accessible for a wide range of abilities.

Takes place every Monday (except Bank Holidays) at 1:30pm,
Riverside Centre, Newport fully funded for you and a carer to attend.
Booking not required.

Any questions contact Caroline Tel: 07873223264

4: Information Centre and Support Service

The Shanklin shop is also the main MS Society information centre on IOW and we hold a whole range of leaflets and booklets covering all aspects of living with MS.
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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 / Events

Luncheons are subsidized and take place on the last Friday of each month, at different venues across the island.

Those with MS and a carer pay a suggested donation £10.00 each (from April 2024).  

Other social activities during each month include funded  visits to IOW attractions, cream teas, quizzes etc. These events are all advertised on IOW MS facebook and in our Monthly newsletter.

Booking is essential via email: islefowightevents@mssociety.org.uk

6: Social Media and the Website

Very active Facebook page posting relevant information and event details.
MS Society website, offering information about MS, who we are and what we do.
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Facebook: MS Society Isle of Wight
Website: www.wightms.org.uk

7: Health and Wellbeing Grants One-Off Cost of Living Payment

Awarding 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.  

To apply for One-Off Cost of Living Payment - Email: isleofwightsupport@mssociety.org.uk

8: Taxi Transport

Provide 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: Fundraising

We 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

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
September 2026

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.