David Martin appointed Chair of the Neurological Alliance


18 November 2020

The MS Trust is delighted to announce that CEO David Martin, has been voted in as Chair of the Neurological Alliance.

The Neurological Alliance is a coalition of more than 80 organisations which work together to transform the outcomes for the millions of people in England with a neurological condition. They aim to raise awareness and understanding of neurological conditions and strive to ensure that everyone diagnosed can access quality, joined up information and services.

Following his appointment David said ‘I am honoured that somebody from a relatively small charity such as the MS Trust has been asked to step into the hot seat and help lead such an influential organisation.’ He goes on to say ‘When I first joined the Trust almost three years ago, I realized how important the Neurological Alliance was to our sector. This is why I thought it was important that we were more actively involved with them. I joined the board of Trustees two years ago and was delighted to recently be voted in as Chair.’

The number of neurology cases in England is increasing, with over 16.5 million people diagnosed with a range of different conditions. However, all too often Neurology is not seen as a priority in the NHS and it’s not listed in the NHS’s long term plan. Add to this the impact of Covid-19 and conditions such as MS face being squeezed out completely, compared to other diseases such as Cancer and Diabetes.

Following his appointment to the Alliance, David is determined to continue the task of getting Neurology moved up the list of NHS priorities. 

I am determined that Neurological conditions and in particular MS will have a higher priority across the health service. My appointment will also, in turn further help to raise the profile of the MS Trust on the national stage.

David is taking on this position as a voluntary role and will be fitting in his work for the Alliance around his busy day job for the MS Trust.