If you’ve experienced meningitis, it might be difficult to know where to turn. So it’s reassuring to know that our confidential, nurse-led Helpline is here to provide information, emotional support, answer your questions and explain more about the support that Meningitis Now can provide.
Even if you haven’t been affected by meningitis, our Helpline nurses are here to answer any questions you might have – whether that’s about meningitis, signs and symptoms or vaccinations. Our nurses also write all our health and care information, providing information you can trust.
Claire Donovan - Helpline and Information Nurse Manager
Claire started her nursing career in the NHS. She has worked in a variety of clinical settings, before specialising in neonatal intensive care.
Claire joined Meningitis Now over 15 years ago and has since gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of meningitis. She manages our nurse-led Helpline, research projects, Rebuilding Futures Fund and writes and oversees all our disease information.
“I feel privileged to be working for a charity that really makes a difference, every day, to those who have been impacted by meningitis.”
Caroline Lyons - Helpline and Assessment Nurse
Caroline started her nursing career in the NHS in 1990, completing her adult nurse training at Guy’s Hospital, and her children’s nurse training at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London. Caroline worked in the NHS for over 20 years as a children’s cancer specialist nurse in both hospital and community settings.
Caroline joined Meningitis Now in 2019 and has continued to use her clinical nursing knowledge within her current role. Caroline supports people through our nurse-led Helpline and is also responsible for the assessment of applications to the Meningitis Now Rebuilding Futures Fund.
“I am proud to be a registered nurse and will continue using the knowledge and skills I have gained throughout my nursing career to support anyone affected by meningitis.”
Vicky - Helpline and Information Nurse
Vicky started her nursing career in the NHS in 1985, working in a variety of hospital and community clinical settings, before becoming a clinical nurse specialist in stoma care.
Vicky joined Meningitis Now in 2023 and has been offering support and information to people who contact the nurse-led Helpline by telephone, email and social media. Vicky also manages our research projects and reviews our disease information.
“I enjoy working as a Helpline and Information Nurse at Meningitis Now. The days are always varied, and I feel very privileged that I can make a difference to people’s lives who have been impacted by meningitis.”