New research into
the needs of carers of
people with multiple
sclerosis
T
HE MS SOCIETY is funding a new
study into the needs of families
and carers of people with multiple
sclerosis (MS) and the impact of MS on
their lives.
The study is being carried out by QMU
researchers who are specialists in person-
centred practice, and is exploring new ways
of supporting families and carers of people
with MS. They hope to improve future services
and general support for families.
The 9-month programme began in April
2016, with final results expected in early 2017.
The work will provide evidence to directly
influence the development of services by the
MS Society, but will also inform and influence
other agencies or organisations which provide
support for MS carers.
While a significant amount of research has
previously been carried out into the impact
of MS on families and carers, fewer studies
have looked at the different ways of providing
support and what works best for different
people. The MS Society has therefore
commissioned this study to bring together this
existing evidence, along with new insights, to
help families and carers of people with MS
access the support they need.
Morna Simpkins, Director for Scotland, MS
Society said: “One of the biggest challenges
is that MS is unpredictable - one day you can
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be fine, the next you might lose your sight
or be unable to move. With over 100,000
people living with MS, it’s therefore vital we
continue to fund innovative research to help
anyone who is affected by MS access the
support they need.”
Dr Cathy Bulley, is leading the research
project at QMU. She said: “This project brings
together experts including people who are
affected by MS, representatives of the MS
Society and researchers. The ultimate aim
is to help to improve the lives of families and
carers of people living with MS. This project
is an excellent example of the relevance of
QMU’s research work in that it aims to shape
policy and service provision that will improve
the lives of people affected by a major health
condition.”
Professor Brendan McCormack, Associate
Director of QMU’s Centre for Person-centred
Practice Research said: “We will be using
a number of contemporary methods to
gather evidence including face-to-face and
telephone interviews, as well as Facebook
and online focus groups. This means that
people all over the UK will have their voices
heard.”
The researcher has received a grant of just
under £48,000 from the MS Society to fund
the work. ❒