Kidney disease can affect anyone of any age, even from birth. There are currently two million people with early stage Chronic Kidney Disease in the UK, and a further 60,000 with end-stage — meaning they are either on Dialysis or have had a kidney transplant. The National Kidney Federation (NKF) is there to offer all the information and support these patients need, along with their families and carers.
Based in Shireoaks, Worksop, The National Kidney Federation (NKF) has been representing renal patients for nearly 40 years and is unique in being the only national charity run by kidney patients for kidney patients. They also run the only UK helpline, dedicated solely to patients, carers and healthcare professionals with any kidney condition.
Again, unlike other kidney charities, NKF focuses exclusively on two roles: providing their national patient support services, and campaigning for improvements to renal provision and treatment.
Key to NKF’s support of patients is The National Kidney Patients Helpline which last year introduced a freephone number, 0800 169 0936, so callers were not mindful of the call cost. This has been very successful with an increase in calls from patients, carers and healthcare professionals. The most regular enquiries are for information regarding chronic kidney disease, dialysis, transplantation, financial support including benefits, guidance on travel and supportive holiday options, and other medical advice.
This is the only UK helpline and is manned by two fully trained, experienced advisers providing a five-day per week service, from 9.00am to 5.00pm. The helpline office is also the UK’s largest producer and distributor of kidney related medical information leaflets — with a library of over 200 titles written by Nephrologists in simple language for patients and carers. Topics include dialysis, transplantation and commonly prescribed drugs… alongside leaflets offering practical help with, for example, dietary advice and staying fit with kidney disease.
Whether an individual is facing a kidney biopsy and just wants one leaflet — or a renal unit, hospital or patient association requires three thousand leaflets on Anaemia — the solution is simple. You ring the helpline, explain what you need and the information is downloaded, printed and posted the same day.
The NKF needs your support, this may be through a donation, corporate support, sponsorship or taking part in one of their exciting events, the charity relies on help from the public to continue its vital work with kidney patients and carers.
Choctober is just around the corner. As many kidney patients have to give up chocolate for ‘life’ the Choctober Challenge is just one way to show your support by giving up chocolate for 31 days during the month of October and sending what you would have spent on chocolate to NKF.
Please help raise awareness of kidney health and organ donation, taking part in the challenge isn’t just about raising money — it spreads the word NKF are here to help
Show your support for kidney patients, tell your friends and family about the Choctober Campaign — surely it’s no big deal living without chocolate for just one month! Is it? Remember for many they have to give it up forever! Please email fiona@kidney.org.uk for your Choctober fundraising pack or call 01909 544999.