Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) is a nationally registered charity funding vital scientific research into the prevention, detection & treatment of meningitis & septicaemia. We also promote awareness of the diseases and offer support to those affected. MRF operates a Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344, available 365 days a year - providing information to the general public and health professionals. The charity currently funds 24 research projects and has spent £15.6 million on research since it was founded in 1989.

Pressure on our fundraising efforts is always great as our work continues with urgency. Although cases of Group C meningococcal disease have declined dramatically in the UK and Ireland since the men C vaccine was introduced, cases of Group B disease remain unchecked, and research to find an effective Group B vaccine is vital. Until there are vaccines that prevent all major forms of meningitis and septicaemia, the importance of improved treatment, better diagnosis and increased awareness of these diseases remains paramount.

Information on the diseases is also available on our website www.meningitis.org in 22 languages. An interpretation service in 150 languages is available through the Freefone 24 hour helpline. A befriender service links people to share their experiences and counsel each other.

Please contact either Alison in Edinburgh or Laura in Bristol for runs in Scotland and England respectively.