Highlights from the 6th national MS primary care conference in Scotland
Event reportsIn June, we were delighted to host the 6th national MS conference for primary care in Scotland and marked the official launch of the MS Nurse Academy Scotland. Although the Academy itself is not a new initiative, this was the first event we delivered under its banner and it was well received and met with excellent feedback. The Academy builds on the vision and commitment of Mhairi Coutts, who has been a driving force behind MS nurse education across Scotland for years.
Held at Trades Hall in Glasgow, the conference welcomed all healthcare professionals from across disciplines involved in the care of people with MS, with particularly strong representation from specialist nurses, physiotherapists and allied health professionals. “Navigating inclusion and working together in MS,” was our theme for the day and it was great to see a supportive and connected community of healthcare professionals who care for people living with MS across Scotland. The programme was packed with thought-provoking sessions with opportunities for discussion, reflection and peer-to-peer learning.
“It was a fantastic day. The conference was a great opportunity to meet with like-minded colleagues and have have open, honest conversations about how we can work together to improve services for those living with MS.”
Mhairi Coutts, lead faculty and founder, MS Nurse Academy Scotland
Morning highlights: lived experience and creative care
The morning began with a powerful and personal session from Amy Thompson, founder and CEO of MS Together, who was joined by Ruth Stross, MS Together trustee. Amy shared her experience of being diagnosed with MS at a young age, and together they explored a wide range of issues affecting younger people living with the condition and the support available through MS Together. Topics included the mental health burden of diagnosis, coping strategies, navigating relationships and family planning, working with MS, peer support, and the importance of self-management.
Their session highlighted the complex psychological impact of MS on younger individuals and highlighted the importance of tailored, age-appropriate care and support. Delegates spoke positively about Amy’s positive and motivating attitude, and many said they were inspired by her story. Several also appreciated learning more about MS Together and the services it provides for younger people with MS.
"Increased my knowledge, which will assist in improving my practice and being able to advise the younger patient about the support being offered."
"So great to hear personal experience of MS. Very moving video."
Delegate feedback
We were then invited to take part in an interactive session delivered by Scottish Ballet. The session began with warm-up stretches, encouraging everyone to get moving and experience the benefits of physical activity first-hand. Tiffany led an engaging and passionate presentation, introducing Scottish Ballet’s innovative Dance Health programmes for people with neurological conditions. She encouraged us to reimagine movement as a space for creativity, joy, self-expression and empowerment.
“I enjoyed this presentation as I was not aware this service was available. The video in particular with the participants was exceptionally positive. This appears to be a very beneficial form of exercise both mentally and physically.”
“I loved the warm up and stretches at the start! The video was powerful, the participants obviously love the classes. Very interesting, I was not aware of these classes and I will pass this on to patients and colleagues. Really positive that there is a virtual option too.”
Delegate feedback
Bedside Ballet, an incredibly innovative programme, utilises digital films and audio sessions, making it accessible and convenient for people with reduced mobility to enjoy at home, in care homes and in hospitals. Find out more about the SB Dance Health programmes, including live online and on demand classes on their website here.
Understanding and mitigating health‑related disparities in MS care
Prof Ruth Dobson presented a data-rich and thought-provoking session exploring health inequalities across the MS care pathway. She highlighted how risk factors, access to healthcare, and outcomes are hugely influenced by environmental and social determinants such as deprivation, geography and socioeconomic status. As Prof Dobson noted, people do not experience healthcare systems equally, and these disparities can affect every stage of the disease course.
Her session emphasised the need for equitable access to timely diagnosis, investigation and treatment for all people with MS. It’s important to be aware of and recognise potential barriers patients may face and make space for those conversations in clinical settings.
“Really informative and thought-provoking. Encourages us to think about a person's background, potential barriers to treatment and thinking about ways to overcome these.”
Delegate feedback
Afternoon sessions: ethics, assisted dying and the Terminally Ill Adults Bill
The afternoon sessions explored more complex and sensitive topics, focusing on conversations around assisted dying and the Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill. The programme included three informative sessions examining the legal, ethical and clinical implications of assisted dying for healthcare professionals. Speakers approached the topic with neutrality and care, aiming to inform and not influence. They offered clarity on definitions and current legislation, helping delegates understand both the Scottish bill and how it differs from the proposed act in England and Wales.
The sessions addressed the specific challenges that MS presents in the assisted dying debate, including themes of autonomy, capacity, decision-making, suffering and advance care planning. These discussions prompted thoughtful engagement from delegates, with many contributing questions and reflections. Throughout, speakers emphasised the importance of open communication, ethical awareness and collaborative working across teams when navigating such complex decisions.
“Very thought-provoking. It is a very complex topic but interestingly is likely to be relevant to us all as health care professionals.”
“Provided great, unbiased information on a controversial subject.”
"A really great reflection for me on how, as a manager, I can start preparing staff for the impact of what is to come.”
“Case studies allowed us to get an insight into real-life situations rather than laws and legislations. Topic delivered well, evident that the speaker is very knowledgeable and cares about her field and patients.”
“Interesting to hear case studies. It was useful to think about the type of questions to ask when discussing this sensitive topic."
Delegate feedback
To support continued learning in this area, we have launched a new online course with Palliative Care Academy, which can be accessed here.
We are grateful to our speakers, delegates and sponsors for making this conference such a success. Planning is now underway for the next event for MS Nurse Academy Scotland, which will take place later this year. If you would like to receive updates and event information, please sign up to our mailing list.
This activity has been financially supported by sponsorship from Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited, Roche Products Limited, Merck Serono Ltd, Neuraxpharm UK Ltd, Sanofi and Juvisé Pharmaceuticals. The sponsors have had no control over the educational content or organisation of this activity.
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