Facial Palsy UK (established 2012) has just celebrated our first 10 years and we couldn’t do what we do without our generous supporters, fundraisers and volunteers. We have directly supported nearly 5,000 people in the last ten years via email or phone. We average approximately 300 attendances per year at our face-to-face and virtual support groups, and 96% of attendees say the support received makes them feel less isolated. Our most recent Family Day for children with facial palsy and their families was attended by 124 people. Some children have never had the chance to meet anyone else with facial palsy, so these events help them to see that they are ‘not the only one’. We are also doing lots of work advocating for patients who struggle to get specialist referrals. The lack of NHS care pathways and information takes an emotional toll on patients, adding stress to an already complex condition. We can help by writing to the GP, outlining the patient’s health care needs and signposting the GP to the nearest specialists. Fundraising income is used by Facial Palsy UK to develop a wide range of services to help people with facial palsy. We also intend to perform research into new treatments and surgeries, how facial palsy may be prevented, and more. See below for further information about how your funds are used.
Find out more about fundraising
Local and virtual support groups across the UK
Facial Palsy UK is still a fledgling charity and currently has ten local support groups. During the pandemic we also started running virtual groups across the UK which is now a permanent support option. Support groups offer a safe and friendly environment where people with facial paralysis can talk to others who share similar experiences. Groups are assisted by a qualified health professional where possible or experienced volunteer. People with facial palsy really benefit from these support groups, mainly due to the fact that facial paralysis is such an isolating condition.
Family days for children affected by facial palsy and their families
Our family days enable children affected by facial palsy to meet others affected by the condition. This helps reduce social isolation and builds self-esteem. It is also an opportunity for parents to connect with other families and exchange information about surgeries and treatments, as well as share personal experiences.
Information and support for people with facial palsy
Facial Palsy UK provides easily accessible information and support for people living with facial palsy, their relatives and carers. We regularly answer support enquiries by phone or email.
Information for health professionals
Facial Palsy UK also provides information and support to health professionals, as well as training those involved in the diagnosis of facial palsy. Examples include our guide Recommendations for supporting the psychological wellbeing of children and adults with facial palsy. We have a decided website for health professionals which is free for anyone with an NHS email address to access.
Raising awareness
Facial Palsy UK aims to educate others about facial palsy, increasing awareness of the condition and its social, physical and psychological consequences. We have an annual Facial Palsy Awareness Week. Please see our animation below called Chloe’s Day which explains what a day in the life of someone with facial palsy might feel like.
Research
Facial Palsy UK plans to raise funds for vital research into:
- New surgeries and treatments.
- How facial palsy may be prevented.
- The effects and consequences for people living with facial paralysis.
Work that we have done so far includes identifying the research priorities.
If you would like more information about fundraising for Facial Palsy UK please contact us on fundraising@facialpalsy.org.uk or alternatively click this link to complete a form about your fundraising idea or event. We could not do what we do without your help. Thank you!
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Last reviewed: 19-09-2024 || Next review due: 19-09-2026