Multiple sclerosis is a condition which causes damage to the nerves in your brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system). It’s estimated that 130,000 people in the UK have Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and every week around 100 more people are diagnosed. There is currently no cure for MS so research that helps support the development of treatments and other interventions is crucial.

The Research team at the University of Plymouth delivers research projects to improve outcomes for people with MS. Which include looking at new treatments, improved use of technology and improving the delivery of MS care within the NHS.

One example is the South West Impact of Multiple Sclerosis project (SWIMS) a study that has, since 2004, followed 1,600 people with multiple sclerosis in Devon and Cornwall, providing new information about how MS changes over time. The data provided by this fantastic MS community helps the research team to understand the impact of MS from the perspective of people affected by MS. Using the data, the team has developed measures which have provided evidence for many new treatments to be introduced into clinical services across the world.

The University of Plymouth research team also works with the local NHS service to provide clinical and support services that have a direct benefit to the quality of care for people who are living with MS in the region.

All donations received will be directed to this research team and their important work to help people with MS.

You can find out more about the teams' research here.