Stroud District Council signs up to Motor Neurone Disease Charter
Published: Friday, 26 May, 2017
Stroud District Council has agreed to adopt the motor neurone disease (MND) Charter in support of local people living with this terminal disease and their carers.
MND is a fatal, rapidly progressing disease that can leave people locked in a failing body, unable to move, talk and eventually breathe. It kills around a third of people within a year of diagnosis, and more than half within two years. There is no cure.
Unfortunately, MND is still little understood and this contributes to many people with the disease not receiving the care and support they need. The MND Charter was launched to change this.
David Hagg, chief executive of Stroud District Council, said:
"I am delighted our council has agreed to adopt the MND Charter. It is vital that more people are aware of the needs of people with MND so those living with this devastating disease can maximise their quality of life and die with dignity."
Sandra Cowley, the council’s former, head of finance was diagnosed with MND last year. She said:
"I have been overwhelmed by the speed with which the disease has changed my life. I have been surprised that accessibility and facilities for disabled people are still quite poor in many shops, hotels and restaurants. Raising awareness of the disease and improving the lives of those living with it is the purpose of the charter. I'm proud that the Stroud District Council has adopted it and hope it encourages all other Gloucestershire councils to do the same."
Chris James, director of external affairs for the MND Association said
"The importance of the MND Charter is undeniable. We want everyone to be clear that access to the right care, in the right place, at the right time, as set out in our charter, can transform lives."
For further information please visit www.mndassociation.org/mndcharter