MS Society launches 'Keep in Touch' service to counter Covid-19 fears
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
PEOPLE isolated by the coronavirus pandemic living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can seek support and assurance thanks to a new remote chatting service.
The MS Society have set up the Keep in Touch (KIT) service in response to a large number of the MS community shielding and socially distancing.
This comes ahead of a planned full befriending service later this year.
Staff are making weekly calls to contact and chat with people affected by the lockdown.
Anyone affected by MS including carers and family members can receive a phone call as a check-in to let people know they are not alone.
Morna Simpkins, who has been director of MS Society Scotland for five years, put herself forward to be part of the calls system.
She said: “I really wanted to be part for this service as I know how vital it is to offer people different options for support to suit them.
“Keep in Touch gives people an opportunity to connect informally, have a conversation one-to-one and, perhaps now more than ever, that’s key.
“There’s no set subjects and callers don’t need to be looking for anything in particular, we’re just providing a space to chat and a friendly voice on the other end of the phone, but of course can signpost to other services including our helpline if needed.”
The call is to reassure that someone will be checking in with them and to provide warm and friendly social contact as uncertainty may be touching other aspects of their life.
More than 15,000 people live with MS in Scotland – one of the highest rates in the world.
Ms Simpkins added: “We know that a lot of our community have been significantly affected by the pandemic because of work, shielding or because local groups aren’t able to meet up and socialise in ways they’re used to.
“Our helpline receives many calls from people looking for support or information on specific subjects and we’re delighted to be offering KIT as a chance to just speak without any pressure on anything at all.
“For many people life has changed dramatically and there is a lot of uncertainty ahead. KIT offers an opportunity to have regular contact and speak about what you like.
“If you think someone you know might like a friendly chat with one of our team, please let them know how to get in touch with our KIT service by calling our free MS helpline on 0808 800 8000 or emailing KIT@mssociety.org.uk.”
Did you know?
* A recent MS Society survey of more than 1100 people living with multiple sclerosis, many of whom are at particular risk, found that over a third of respondents said their mental health has suffered as a result of the pandemic, more than a quarter feel "scared" about what Covid-19 could mean for them and only 55 per cent said they are "coping".
* MS damages nerves in the body and makes it harder to do everyday things, like walk, talk, eat and think. Having MS in itself does not increase your risk of getting Covid-19, but many with MS are at an increased risk of infection or complications. Thousands with the condition have been told to shield at home by the government.
* The MS Society says it has seen a significant increase in those relying on its services, as many existing support structures have had to be overhauled in response to coronavirus. This includes healthcare professionals being redeployed, online food deliveries – which many people with disabilities relied on before the crisis – stretched beyond capacity, and family and friends unable to visit to provide essential care and companionship
* If you’d like to get in touch with our KIT service by calling our free MS helpline on 0808 800 8000 or emailing KIT@mssociety.org.uk.
