New meningitis website for teenagers

The unique site, which was developed by a working party of education specialists and piloted amongst pupils throughout the UK, aims to provide pupils and teachers with a knowledge and understanding of the disease, its signs and symptoms and to encourage pupils to take responsibility for their own health. The project is in line with the Government's drive to develop Information Communications Technology (ICT) and Computer Aided Learning (CAL) within schools.

Bev Hart, Education Manager at the Meningitis Trust, knows that the project will be a success in both raising awareness and in the classroom. She comments:  "Although there is a vaccine available for meningococcal C, there is still no protection against the B strain, and cases are rising. Knowledge is the best weapon against meningitis and, in partnership with BT, we have created a website that is informative, thought-provoking and fun."

Linda Dowell, Projects Manager in BT's Social Policy Unit, adds: "The Internet is playing an increasing education role for teenagers in the classroom and we believe that the Trust's new website will help save lives. This project also demonstrates BT's innovative approach to communication and its commitment to the community."

We are indebted to the National Meningitis Trust for their help in compiling this section.