Shaping the future of people with Multiple Sclerosis

<< Background >>People with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are often forced to leave the labour market shortly after diagnosis due to lack of workplace adaptations, reduced confidence, and limited access to support, or may never have the opportunity to work if diagnosed before reaching adulthood. At the same time, employers frequently lack the tools and knowledge to provide an inclusive environment. ShapeMS was designed to provide targeted, co-developed tools and training to help individuals with MS (18-40) remain active in the workforce, while also equipping employers and stakeholders to create inclusive, supportive environments. It aligns with EU priorities on inclusion, equal opportunities, and upskilling in adult education and promotes sustainable employment and better quality of life for people with chronic health conditions.<< Objectives >>ShapeMS aims to improve the employability and independence of young adults with MS (aged 18–40) and to transform workplaces into more inclusive environments. Key objectives included:Development of accessible training material focused on soft, digital, and entrepreneurial skillsCreation of a mentorship programme connecting experienced individuals with newly diagnosedDigital learning platform including 15 modules, 10 interactive tools, and 5 inclusive workshops forTailored guidance for employers to support inclusive work environments.Production of awareness videos produced in each country to inform the public and people with MS about employment opportunities and available support was the initial goal as well.Two toolkits to help organisations understand MS-related needs and navigate public funding options. The objectives responded directly to gaps identified during the preparation phase and were aligned with EU priorities in inclusion, accessibility, and adult education.<< Implementation >>During implementation, the ShapeMS delivered its main goals across all partner countries. A practical guide was produced to help people with MS explain their condition at work. Four videos presenting the project and testimonials, created within the ShapeMS project and subtitled in all consortium languages. Two toolkits were developed to support employers in making their workplaces more inclusive and to guide them in utilising public funding options. A digital learning platform (LMS) was set up, including 22 training modules, 28 interactive activities, and 15 inclusive workshops. A mentorship module was also created, allowing mentors from Cyprus, Italy, Spain, and Turkey to support younger people with MS. The material was shaped together with people with MS to meet real needs. Employers received training, and country-specific lists of assistive tools and funding opportunities were shared. More than 2,000 stakeholders were reached, and evaluation tools showed progress in inclusion, awareness, and employment support.<< Results >>ShapeMS delivered tangible outputs and meaningful results. Key outputs included: training curriculum, a mentoring programme manual, a practical guide for employers and an LMS-based digital training platform. Evaluation results confirmed positive impact as participants reported increased confidence, improved digital and soft skills, and higher levels of workplace readiness. Employers showed greater awareness of inclusion practices, and caregivers appreciated the guidance provided. More than 300 dissemination actions were implemented, including events, social media posts, online campaigns and publications. The project fostered national and EU various networks supporting the employment of people with MS. Ethical protocols and accessibility standards were upheld across all tools and user involvement phass. ShapeMS created sustainable resources and a model that can support both MS communities and broader groups living with chronic conditions.