AIMS Receives The King's Award for Voluntary Service

AIMS is honoured to receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2025, the highest national award given to local volunteer groups in the United Kingdom. Our journey started in 2021 with a simple vision: to support those affected by Multiple Sclerosis and neurological conditions after the collapse of local MS services during the Covid pandemic. Our volunteers run seven digital sessions each week, two weekly face to face classes, organise social gatherings, fundraisers and maintain regular contact with members, including phone check-ins for non-digital users.

“It is an incredible honour for AIMS to receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This recognition shines a light on the dedication and compassion of our volunteers who give their time every week all year-round, taking breaks only on Christmas and New Year’s Day to help others live more independent, active lives.

For a small local charity like ours, it means the world to see the value of our work acknowledged nationally and we hope it also raises awareness of the support available to anyone in the north-east affected by MS or a similar condition.” –  AIMS Chair, Ian Gourlay MBE.

This recognition is not just a celebration of our achievements, but a reflection of the dedication, compassion, and resilience that define our community.