RecruitingInterventional

Neuropsychological evaluation and rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis – definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT) and implementation study

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can often affect thinking skills, such as memory, attention, and planning. These challenges can be upsetting and affect work, mood, and daily life. The NEuRoMS study aims to improve NHS support for these difficulties. First, adults with MS complete brief online screening tests to spot any memory or thinking problems early. Those with mild or moderate difficulties may then take part in a trial comparing standard NHS care with a new rehabilitation programme. This programme provides therapist-guided sessions sharing practical coping strategies. Researchers are also speaking with patients and healthcare staff to learn how easily NHS clinics can adopt this new service. Taking part helps researchers understand if routine screening and support make a meaningful difference to everyday life with MS.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

4,776

Start

01 Jun 2024

Estimated completion

30 Apr 2027

Multiple Sclerosis

What is this study about?

Many people know that multiple sclerosis (MS) causes physical symptoms, but it can also affect the brain's thinking skills. Up to 70% of people with MS find that their memory, focus, and ability to multitask or solve problems become harder over time. These difficulties can feel frustrating, affect confidence, and make staying in work or enjoying social activities tough.

The NEuRoMS study was created to change how the NHS helps people with these symptoms. Currently, thinking difficulties are not always checked during routine appointments. This research tests a new clinical pathway that starts with quick, simple screening tests to spot thinking challenges as early as possible.

If the screening finds mild or moderate difficulties, participants may join a support programme. In this programme, trained healthcare staff work directly with patients to teach practical coping tips and mental strategies to make daily life easier. Researchers will check whether this extra support improves wellbeing and provides good value for the NHS.

Key takeaways

Up to 70% of people with MS experience memory, focus, or thinking issues.
The NEuRoMS study tests a routine NHS screening pathway and practical support programme.
Open to UK adults aged 18 and older with a confirmed diagnosis of MS.
Involves simple online thinking tests and therapist-guided coping sessions.
Participation is voluntary, involves no new medications, and does not alter your regular care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to adults aged 18 or older living in the UK who have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). There is no upper age limit. To take part, you need to be able to communicate in English, as the tests and study tools are currently only available in English (though information sheets can be provided in Welsh upon request).

To take part in the main rehabilitation programme, you must first complete the brief online screening. You are eligible for this second stage if the screening tests and your clinical team confirm that you have mild or moderate difficulties with memory or thinking.

People who do not show thinking changes on the screening tests will not be eligible for the rehabilitation sessions, but their initial screening answers still provide valuable data to help researchers understand MS.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am aged 18 or older.
I have a confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS).
I am able to communicate in English for tests and assessments.
I am willing to complete brief memory and thinking checks.
I receive care at or near a participating NHS clinic.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part begins with Part 1, where you complete brief online tasks that test your attention, memory, and thinking speed.

If these tests show mild or moderate difficulties, you may be invited to join Part 2. This is a randomised trial, which means a computer will place you by chance into one of two groups: • Group 1 receives standard NHS care plus the NEuRoMS support sessions. A trained therapist leads these sessions, teaching practical tips and coping methods. • Group 2 continues with standard NHS care only.

You will complete questionnaires over time to see how you are getting on. Some participants will also be invited to short interviews to share their views on the programme. There are no new medications involved, and you will continue all your regular MS treatments throughout.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part may not directly improve your symptoms, but it could help shape better NHS care for people with MS in the future. The tests and sessions do not involve physical procedures or medications. However, talking about memory and thinking problems can sometimes feel upsetting or stressful. If you feel worried at any point, the research team is there to talk things through. You are always in control and can pause, take a break, or leave the study at any time without your normal NHS care being affected.

Locations (7)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust - Queen's Medical Centre Campus
City only
Nottingham, England
Barts Health NHS Trust
City only
London, England
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
City only
Cardiff, Wales
The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
City only
Leeds, England
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust
City only
Lincoln, England
The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Unverified
Newcastle upon Tyne, England
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Unverified
Sheffield, England

Common questions

Will I have to take any new medications?

No. This trial does not involve any experimental drugs. It focuses on thinking tests and talking-based coping strategies.

Can I choose whether I receive the support sessions?

No. To make the study fair and reliable, a computer randomly assigns participants to receive either standard NHS care alone or standard care with the support sessions.

Do I need to stop my regular MS treatments?

No. You will continue seeing your usual healthcare team and taking all your regular medicines as normal.

Where does the study take place?

The study is running across seven NHS hospital trusts in the UK with specialist MS clinics. Many tasks can be completed online or during your routine clinic visits.

What happens if I find the tests too tiring?

Fatigue is very common in MS. You can take breaks whenever you need them, and you can stop participating at any point if it becomes too much.

How to find out more

Gogem Topcu

gogem.topcu@nottingham.ac.uk - Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.