Meningitis Now BBC Lifeline Appeal
Thank you to everyone who supported our BBC Lifeline Appeal.
The appeal gave us a powerful opportunity to share the reality of meningitis with audiences across the UK, through the experiences of people and families whose lives have been changed by the disease. Their stories highlighted not only the devastating impact meningitis can have, but also the importance of support, community and hope in the aftermath.
We're incredibly grateful to everyone who watched the film, shared it with others or made a donation. Together, you've helped raise awareness of meningitis and the challenges people can face long after diagnosis, while helping introduce more people to the support available through Meningitis Now.
Whilst donations through the BBC Lifeline Appeal have now closed, you can still support Meningitis Now by making a donation directly through our website. Donations received will help us continue our work funding research, raising awareness and supporting people affected by meningitis across the UK.
We're incredibly grateful for the support the appeal has received so far, with supporters helping to raise over £16,000 to date. We look forward to sharing an update on the final total amount raised through the appeal soon.
Watch the appeal
The BBC Lifeline Appeal for Meningitis Now aired on BBC One on 4 October and can still be viewed on BBC iPlayer.
Watch the appeal on BBC iPlayer
About the appeal film
The film featured the experiences of Graeme & Gail, David & Russell, and Arthur & Alex, each sharing their personal journey with meningitis and its aftermath.
Graeme and Gail spoke about the bereavement support they received from Meningitis Now after the devastating loss of their daughter Katherine.
David and Russell shared how our Helpline helped them access information and support following David's life-changing meningitis diagnosis.
Arthur and Alex explained how support from our Rebuilding Futures Fund helped Arthur rebuild confidence and develop his spoken language after hearing loss caused by meningitis.
The appeal also featured Seema Jaswal, one of Meningitis Now's Celebrity Ambassadors and a long-standing supporter of the charity. Having experienced meningitis B as a teenager, Seema understands first-hand the impact meningitis can have and helped bring that message to audiences across the country.
Why this all matters
Meningitis can affect anyone, at any age, and can become life-threatening very quickly. While many people recover, others face lasting physical, emotional or financial challenges, and some families experience the heartbreak of losing someone they love.
That's why opportunities like the BBC Lifeline Appeal are so important. By bringing real stories to a national audience, the film helped shine a light on the realities of meningitis, the support available after diagnosis or bereavement, and the difference early awareness can make.
At Meningitis Now, we save lives and rebuild futures through research, awareness and support. From our Helpline and bereavement services to financial assistance through the Rebuilding Futures Fund, we're here to help people at every stage of their journey with meningitis.
Thank you
We're deeply grateful to everyone who made this appeal possible.
In particular, we'd like to thank Graeme & Gail, David & Russell, and Arthur & Alex for sharing such personal experiences. By telling their stories, they've helped thousands more people understand the reality of meningitis and its long-term impact.
Our thanks also go to Seema Jaswal for her unwavering support, and to Carter-Ruck for their generous match-funding contribution to the appeal.
Finally, thank you to every supporter who watched, shared or donated. Your support helps ensure that nobody affected by meningitis has to face it alone.
Support our work
Although donations through the BBC Lifeline Appeal have now closed, you can still support Meningitis Now by donating directly through our website.