Skip to main content

Welcome!

Research initiative logo highlighting MS in the word "Domestic"

                                            

Findings from the Crime Survey England and Wales highlight that disabled people are almost three times as likely to experience Domestic Violence and Abuse (DVA), compared to non-disabled people. There are currently no available statistics about the prevalence of DVA amongst people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Prior to this project, which is funded by the Horne Family Charitable Fund, information about DVA and people with MS was almost non-existent, as was research on how they access support. The initiative has begun to improve our understanding the impact of DVA on people with MS and any implications for clinical practice. We have developed a toolkit for MS healthcare practitioners, which equips them with the knowledge to allow them to safely identify and respond to signs of DVA within clinical settings.

A new version of our resource 'A Toolkit for Multiple Sclerosis Healthcare Professionals' is under development and will be ready for launch very soon. We welcome feedback and insights to help us ensure that it is fit for purpose. Please send any comments and ideas to Sue Britt at Leeds University.

Our Mission

The population of people with multiple sclerosis is growing annually, with recent estimates from 2024 revealing that there are more than 150,000 people with multiple sclerosis in the UK, 70% of whom are women. Even though disabled people, including those with MS, are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing DVA, they often find themselves with fewer support resources. Our initiative aims to:

  • Shed light on the unique challenges faced by people with MS experiencing DVA.
  • Develop a toolkit for clinical practice that enables clinicians to safely identify and respond to signs and disclosures of DVA in people with MS.
  • Strengthen referral pathways to ensure people with MS receive comprehensive, timely support when responding to the experiences of DVA.

Join Us on This Journey

We believe that every person with MS deserves to live free from fear and abuse, supported by a healthcare system that views a person with MS as a whole person, not just a patient in need of medical treatment. Our work transcends research; it is a heartfelt commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of many.

We invite you to explore our website, learn more about our findings and initiatives, and join us in advocating for a safer, more supportive world for people with MS.

Together, we can create lasting change.