Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that is commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 30. A time in life where you will potentially be planning a career and looking towards a fulfilling future. The fluctuating nature of MS can lead to unpredictability and feelings of uncertainty. MS affects everyone differently, yet at some point it is likely to have an impact on your working life. This will of course depend on your symptoms, whether you experience relapses, disease progression, and will depend on the type of work you do.
Living a life with MS does not mean you will have to give up work, or even necessarily change your career path. Many people feel a real sense of identity through their job and stopping work too early can have a detrimental impact. It is important to know what support is available to you, to enable you to stay in work for as long as you want to.
The following pages will help you to find out about MS and work, to know how you are protected by the Equality Act, what you can expect from your employer, who to go to for employment information and advice, and much more.
