For several decades the respite care homes provided by the MS Society have had a reputation as excellent temporary refuges, allowing people with multiple sclerosis and their carers a short break from daily pressures of living with the condition.

In two weeks' time, however, the charity faces a critical decision as its trustees rule on whether they want to continue running four residential homes across the country or whether traditional forms of respite care are outdated and need comprehensive reform.

The board could decide to close all four homes, and redirect the funds spent on running them to offer a more personalised service to people with MS and their carers, or they could radically redesign the services on offer. The charity has spent the past year in consultation with its users about what they want from the organisation, and the report summarising the consultations suggests they want change.

Whatever the outcome, the announcement is likely to prove controversial, as there are users who still rely heavily on the support of these institutions, just as there are those who question their value.

Read the full story, click here