MND Association Spending in the North East

We understand that at a recent public event for people with MND it was inferred that little of the money collected in the North East for MND was actually used for the benefit of local individuals.

We are very concerned that there is this misconception about the funds, which the Branch and its supporters work so hard to raise all year round.

Local needs take first priority in the use of funds raised by the Branch. The money is spent, usually at the Regional Care Adviser's instigation, for specific items of equipment, contributions to equipment or for a number of reasons where a particular need has been identified for people with MND in the area.

Requests for help come from a variety of sources, including sometimes the family, Health and Social Care professionals, or indeed from Dr Williams, Consultant Neurologist and MND Care centre director at the RVI. In this way the Branch income is spent constantly over the year, and in Tyne & Wear direct payments from the Branch totalled over £9,300 last year. In addition, over £21,000 was dedicated by the Branch to the Association's Care Services.

There is a broad range of direct and indirect services provided by the Association from central funds, for people in the North East, which may not always be appreciated just by looking at the accounts of a local Branch.

For example funding which may need to continue for a long period, such as rental of a specific piece of equipment, respite care costs, overnight care and equipment loaned from the Association's Equipment Loan stores will be requested from National Office.

Other services include;

• The provision of a Regional Care Advisor for the region
• The Association's national Helpline (08457 626262), available during office hours and from 7.30 - 10.00pm each evening. It offers high quality, up to date information and advice to both people with MND and Health & Social Care professionals
• There is also an extensive range of printed information available free to anyone affected by MND
• The training and support of Association Visitors who work closely with the RCA to befriend and support families affected
• Educational opportunities on MND for Health & Social Care Professionals in the region presented by the RCA
• Direct funding of over £40,000 to the MND Care Centre at the RVI as part of the Association's Care Centre programme of funding 13 Centres in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to support excellent local care and expertise.
• The total spend during the financial year 2004/5, by National Office, in the region covered by our RCA, was £110,723.

We will endeavour to keep you well informed of how we make the most of the money you give us, and please be assured that it really does make a difference to people living with MND in the North East.