Here’s to all the fundraisers, petition signers, volunteers, campaigners, awareness raisers, members and supporters – we couldn’t have done it without you! Together, this is what we’re doing:
Pioneering Research
Between 2008 and 2016, we awarded nearly £5 million in research grants for innovative and vital research, much of which would otherwise have gone unfunded. We will be investing around £900,000 in 2017.
Raising Awareness
With your help, we have distributed over 300,000 health booklets, guides, leaflets and patient packs in 2016. In 2017, we’ll be launching several new exciting Apps, films and living with IBD tips for younger people.
Breaking Taboos
Our‘Accessible Toilet Sign’ campaign is raising awareness for “invisible” conditions. Most of the UK’s largest supermarkets are now adopting our new sign.
Better Healthcare
We’re campaigning and advocating for greater access to specialist nurses for people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. We also act on the UK IBD Standards, pushing to ensure that healthcare services for everyone affected by IBD are improved.
Being There
We supported those living with Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis via our helpline and LiveChat in 2016. We’re increasing our helpline and information services in 2017, so we can reach more people where and when needed. We gave personal grants to people on low incomes – helping them cope with living costs they had struggled to meet – and supported younger people with further education grants.
So what’s next?
There’s a lot to look forward to in 2017 – and plenty of ways for you to get involved.
Take a walk with us:
Walk-It is back for 2017 and will road-show across eight UK cities. It’s a great day out as well as raising loads of awareness, funds and bringing friends, family and the community together. Registration will be online and in the members’ magazine from February.
If you’re feeling more energetic:
Why not challenge yourself and run a half marathon near you for Crohn’s and Colitis UK, or get your hands dirty with friends and work mates at one of our Tough Mudder charity places throughout the year?
If elegance and sophistication are more your style:
Grab a ticket for a Black Tie Ball, or check out a Fashion Show & Afternoon Tea Extravaganza in Leeds.
There are plenty of opportunities to run, walk, swim, cycle, dance, dine, campaign and fundraise for Crohn’s and Colitis UK in 2017.
Volunteer for us:
Is your New Year's Resolution to try something new in 2017? Then why not start volunteering for Crohn's and Colitis UK? There are plenty of opportunities available across the charity, including in our local volunteering groups. For more inspiration hear from some of our amazing volunteers about their experiences of being part of our charity.
Join us
One of the best (and easiest) ways to support our charity is to become a member. For just £1.25 per month (and free for students and people on lower incomes), you can join our growing community of 32,000 people nationwide.
Every member of Crohn’s and Colitis UK receives a free ‘Can’t Wait’ card – just one of the many things we’re discussing at government level to ensure even greater recognition and support. You’ll also receive our members’ magazine Connect, which we’re thrilled to say won a clutch of awards in 2016 (including ‘Best Membership Magazine’).
If you’re already a member but know someone who could benefit from joining our community, please help spread the good news!
However you choose to get involved with Crohn’s and Colitis UK, let’s make next year even better for everyone who needs our support. All the staff, trustees, and everyone at the charity wish you a happy and healthy 2017.