www.bdfnewlife.co.uk

BDF Newlife
The UK’s leading child health research and care charity

Why do we exist?
Because babies are our future

While all babies are special, some babies are very, very special in respect of their health or welfare needs and because babies are our future. We exist because inborn conditions are syndromes, diseases and malformations. Some are minor, others are debilitating, many are life-threatening. They can cause distress and heartache, affecting ability, physical and mental development, senses, organs, limbs and life span. Some are noticed at birth, others will be noticed later.

Inborn conditions share a commonality. They all occur in utero (in the womb), that’s why we focus on research issues that can affect the development of our precious babies, whilst also developing treatments and understanding diagnosis. This could be 124 babies born every day with some kind of inborn condition, in the UK alone. Of the 124 babies born today, as many as 25 may not live to see their 7th birthday. Inborn conditions remain the biggest threat to our children’s health. BDF Newlife is the only dedicated UK charity/organisation focusing on inborn conditions of all kinds regardless of individual condition name. Because - for the sake of our babies and children - we need action - now.

Who are we?
We are the UK’s leading child health research and care charity

BDF Newlife was founded in 1991 under the name of the Birth Defects Foundation, by parents, doctors and business people dedicated to fighting the biggest threat to child health – inborn conditions (birth defects). We are known nationally for our commitment, integrity, passion, creativity and compassion. The general public may not have heard our name, but they know us well. The families who turn to us for care and support, the researchers who turn to us to support their endeavours recognise our unique existence. BDF Newlife doesn’t seek to be well known to all, just to those who need us and to the discerning supporters who make our work possible.

What we do…

Research

Since we began in 1991, we have funded research into many types of inborn conditions. Our relevant, clinically and ethically approved research investigates the causes, prevention and treatment of these conditions.

Services

Our Nurse Service Team comforts, informs and supports families and those at risk prior to and during pregnancy. The service includes, providing unique publication information and tailored responses to enquiries. Our Service Team also listens to parents and provides comfort and care.

Grants

We give direct grants to affected families, funding vital equipment and assistance. Our grants give very practical help to families caring for someone up to 18 years of age with an inborn condition, that has significant effects. The grants either directly help the child or relieve pressure on the family.

Awareness

We campaign to raise the level of awareness. We do this because both parents and older patients suffer from the effects of poor awareness in respect of isolation, alienation, lack of services, training and facilities. Creating awareness amongst the general public and policy makers can challenge these experiences. We also raise awareness to help people to act prior to pregnancy, to reduce the risks of inborn conditions.

Condition Information Service - Special Source

We have therefore developed "Special Source" to provide a unique, free, consolidated and user-friendly web resource, backed up by our Nurse Service. Special Source provides vital information on inborn conditions, and is designed to be used by families, parents, patients and professionals. It provides up to date, easily understandable information on inborn conditions and related subjects. Special Source is available at: www.bdfnewlife.co.uk

BDF Newlife
BDF Centre
Hemlock Way
Cannock
Staffordshire WS11 7GF

Tel: 01543 468888
Fax: 01543 468999
Email: info@bdfnewlife.co.uk
Web: www.bdfnewlife.co.uk

Registered Charity No. 1001817

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