MS Society Offers Another Line Of Support, UK

Main Category: Multiple Sclerosis
Article Date: 27 Feb 2008 - 5:00 PDT

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The MS Society is reaching out to more people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) than ever before thanks to the launch of an email Helpline facility.

For some people, sending an email is easier than making a call and those in need of information and emotional support can now take advantage of a new way of contacting the award-winning MS Society Helpline.

Emails will be responded to within three working days and will be answered by the same trained staff and volunteers who currently answer the phones.

MS Society Helpline manager, Ronald Fernandes, said: "People may be put off phoning the MS Society Helpline for a number of reasons including emotional obstacles, convenience, or embarrassment.

"People in the workplace may be unable to discuss a private matter on the telephone, or may be too busy to make a phone call, while for others sensitive issues such as sexual dysfunction or continence problems may be easier to write about than to say out loud.

"Some people find it emotionally therapeutic to write down how they feel, so writing an email can be a useful way of dealing with difficult situations. Similarly, a written response that can be kept and re-read can be comforting."

Although MS affects only a small proportion of people in a severe way, for some a disability, such as speech difficulties or deafness may prevent them from picking up the phone.

The MS Society is also hoping that by offering an email address, the support offered by the Helpline may appeal to a younger audience.

Patsy Peebles, 15, was diagnosed with MS last year and said she "didn't know where to turn".

"There are people offering help and support but I found it difficult to express what I was feeling and found I had questions that weren't being answered.

"To be able to email a helpline that can answer the questions I have as a young person will help me to cope with the challenges that MS throws up."

Email helpline@mssociety.org.uk or phone on 0808 800 8000.

Multiple Sclerosis Society