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► Meningitis Trust

Who we are:

The Meningitis Trust was founded in 1986. We offer the largest range of free professional services and community based support for people affected by meningitis.

What is Meningitis?:

There are over 500,000 people living in the UK today who have had meningitis. Each year there are 2,500 new cases of bacterial meningitis, and double that of viral meningitis. 1 in 10 people die from the disease, and 1 in 4 suffer long-term after effects. These life-changing effects can include deafness, loss of sight, limb-loss where septicaemia has occurred, brain damage, memory loss and learning difficulties.

Volunteer Roles:

1. Awareness

It is vitally important that all communities are aware of the threat and impact of meningitis. To raise awareness we distribute information on the disease, via life-saving symptoms cards and posters and talking to local community groups, such as nurseries and schools. Volunteer speakers, who will receive disease training, will allow us to extend out reach into new communities.

2. Fundraising

We are heavily reliant on voluntary donations to allow us to support those with meningitis. We need volunteers to distribute event materials and help us promote events, such as Coffee Break and Toddle Waddle. The Trust is always looking for helpers to support our fundraisers at events such as The Great North Run and other local community events.

3. Administration

The day-to-day running of the Trust, either in the office, or from home. Activities include telephoning our supporters, inputting data, doing online fundraising/information research and packing literature materials. This role helps the Trust to be cost-effective in the use of its time and resources.

Skills Acquisition:

Volunteers will gain skills required to work in the not-for-profit sector, which will be useful for careers in the field after university. Additionally, fundraising, marketing and administration skills can be developed, as can interpersonal skills, mainly in dealing with the public.