MENINGITIS TRUST

About the Meningitis Trust

The Meningitis Trust is the UK’s leading Meningitis charity, raising awareness of Meningitis and septicaemia through training programmes and offering practical support for life to people coping with the devastating after-effects.

Specifically, the Meningitis Trust provides support through the following services:

  • A 24-hour freephone helpline led by specially
    trained nurses offering information and support
    in over 100 languages
    - 0800 028 18 28

  • Free professional counselling

  • A home visiting service

  • Financial grants to fund special equipment;
    respite care; therapeutic activities; special training;
    travel and accommodation costs; and much more.

    • This year the Trust celebrates its 21st anniversary of fighting Meningitis and rebuilding shattered lives. For the many thousands of people who have been, and continue to be, affected by Meningitis, and for those who sadly will be affected in the future, the Meningitis Trust is a lifeline. The only charity of its kind, focusing on fighting Meningitis through awareness and providing the best possible support to those affected.

    The Meningitis Trust is a registered charity which relies on donations for 99% of its income.
    About Menigitis

    Meningitis is a life-threatening infection which affects the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis and its associated disease, septicaemia (blood poisoning), can kill within hours and can affect anyone at any time. Those most at risk are children under the age of five, teenagers and young adults, and people over 55.

    Approximately 3,000 cases are reported every year in the UK, but Meningitis experts estimate that this is half of the true picture. There is still no vaccine available to protect against the Meningococcal group B bacteria, the most common cause of the disease in the UK. It is vital that people know how to recognise the signs and symptoms as medical help should be sought immediately.

    Common signs and symptoms include fever (cold hands and feet), vomiting, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, joint or muscle pain, drowsiness, confusion, and also, in babies, dislike of being handled, pale blotchy skin, unusual cry, and a blank staring expression.

    Both adults and children may have a rash (septicaemia) that doesn’t fade under pressure. Symptoms can appear in any order and some may not appear at all.