All-Party Parliamentary Group for MS re-established
We’re pleased to announce that the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for MS has been re-formed. The group is one of the main ways that MPs and Peers (members of the House of Lords) with an interest in MS can bring about positive change.
Why have an APPG for MS?
There has been an APPG for MS for several years and we provided the previous secretariat for the group. But the APPG had to disband when the General Election was called earlier in 2024.
After the election, we thought it was important to support parliamentarians to get the group back together. We want to make sure that MPs and Peers from different political parties can come together to discuss the issues facing people affected by MS.
Who’s part of the APPG?
The group is now chaired by Oliver Ryan, MP for Burnley. Oliver is new to parliament and was elected in July 2024. We asked Oliver what inspired him to be a part of the APPG for MS. He said:
"I’ve had a connection to Multiple Sclerosis for as long as I can remember - my mum has been living with it throughout my life. Growing up, I witnessed first-hand the challenges she faced and the strength she demonstrated in managing the condition. This gave me a deep understanding of the impact MS has, not just on those diagnosed, but also on their families.
"I came to appreciate the vital sense of community the MS Society fosters for individuals like my mum. These experiences instilled in me a lifelong commitment to helping others affected by MS.
Joining the APPG was a deeply personal decision. When the opportunity came, I knew it was a meaningful way to channel my experiences and help amplify the voices of those living with MS. It’s a cause close to my heart, and I’m proud to contribute to the important work the MS Society is doing and now proud to chair the group.
The other Officers of the group include Lord Dubs (Labour), Simon Hoare MP (Conservative) and Sean Woodcock MP (Labour). Members of the group come from a wide range of parties and across both Houses of Parliament, including the Liberal Democrats and the Scottish National Party.
What happens next?
The APPG will invite people with MS to get involved with the APPG. They want the issues faced by people with MS to be shared in Parliament.
Next year, the APPG will hold events on the issues facing people affected by MS. The members will also talk to MPs about important legislation going through Parliament. The APPG want MPs to hear the views of our community and how those laws could impact them.
In 2025, the APPG will focus on employment for people with MS. The group wants to understand the barriers faced by people living with MS to find and stay in long-term work.
The group will also research hospital attendances of people with MS. Its members want to build a better understanding of how to improve healthcare.
How to get involved
Sign up to our campaigns community to stay up to date about our latest campaigns and parliamentary activity. And we'll let you know what you can do to get involved or support our work.
You may also be interested in
