First dedicated MND Association group in West Essex
Published: 02 October 2026
Daughter's determination helps launch first Motor Neurone Disease group in West Essex
A NEW group for people with motor neurone disease (MND), their families and carers is launching in West Essex to help people connect with others who understand the challenges of the disease.
The MND Association West Essex Group will launch at a special event on Thursday 15 October, bringing together people affected by MND, healthcare professionals, volunteers and supporters from across the area.
The group has been established by local volunteer Sophie Bell, whose mum died from MND in 2023.
After caring for her mum for two years, Sophie became determined to improve support for people affected by MND in West Essex.
She said: "MND is a huge part of my life. When Mum was first diagnosed, we didn't know where to turn.
"Thankfully, she was supported by an MND Association visitor who regularly came to see her, helped us access support and was always there to listen.
"Before her diagnosis, Mum was a real social butterfly, but MND changed that. She worried about being treated differently and became much less confident about going out.
"Having somewhere local where she could meet people who truly understood what she was going through would have made such a difference.
"After attending MND Association fundraising events in South Essex, I realised there was very little support available here in West Essex. I wanted to help change that."
When Sophie began volunteering with the MND Association, she met the charity’s Community Support Coordinator, Chloe Rich.
Recognising the lack of opportunities for people affected by MND to meet and support one another locally, they worked together to establish the area's first dedicated MND Association group.
Chloe said: "Across the country, our branches and groups make a real difference to people living with MND and those closest to them by providing support, information and opportunities to connect with others.
"Until now, there hasn't been a dedicated MND Association group in West Essex. We're delighted our new group will create a welcoming space where people can come together, share experiences and access support closer to home.
"We know MND can feel isolating, but no one should have to face it alone. We hope the group will help people build connections, find support and feel part of a community that understands."
Following the launch event, at Phoenix Live, Harvey Centre, Harvey Centre Approach, Harlow, CM20 1XR at 5pm, the group will hold regular monthly meetings at the same venue. The group also plans to organise social activities, awareness events and fundraising opportunities throughout the year.
The West Essex Group is currently looking for volunteers to help support its work and welcomes enquiries from anyone interested in getting involved.
For more information about the launch event, volunteering opportunities or the West Essex Group, contact on 01604800659, or Chloe.rich@mndassociation.org .
ENDS
About the MND Association
Every day we’re here for people affected by Motor Neurone Disease. A diagnosis of MND brings home the preciousness of every day. So we do all we can to make every day count.
We bring understanding and guidance. We deliver practical and financial support. We raise awareness and campaign for better care. We’re not just here for now – as the UK’s leading charity funder of MND research, we’re striving for breakthroughs to develop new treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
MND moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every piece of support, every research project, every pound raised, every kind word, and every day lived well, matters.
About motor neurone disease
Motor neurone disease (MND) is a fatal, rapidly progressing neurological disease. Today six people will be diagnosed with MND, and six people will die from the disease. There is no cure.
