“Through Dr. Saima Ajaz, one of our foundation’s trustees, I was re‑introduced to the British Liver Trust. Dr. Saima arranged a Zoom call with Pamela Healy OBE, Chief Executive, which proved to be a very emotional meeting. Pamela shared that the British Liver Trust had recently merged with The Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF). Elena had been a patron of CLDF from 2010 until her passing in 2014, which led us to share memories and reflect on how much this role meant to her.
Affectionately known as Bally, Elena was diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis at the age of 19, a chronic liver condition that can progress to liver cancer. Despite her own health challenges, she used her platform to raise awareness about liver health and support those affected by liver diseases. I shared with Pamela how deeply personal and impactful Elena’s involvement with CLDF had been. She dedicated time to meet with families, share her story, and advocate for better understanding and treatment of liver conditions. I remain immensely proud of her. Through her role as patron, she helped amplify the charity’s mission to provide support, fund research, and raise awareness about childhood liver diseases.
The CLDF continues to carry out extraordinary work, and Elena’s legacy lives on through the organisation’s ongoing commitment to supporting families, funding research, and providing education and advocacy. The Elena Baltacha Foundation looks forward to collaborating with the British Liver Trust, building a positive partnership aimed at delivering impactful messaging on liver disease prevention and promoting liver health. It was very meaningful to have Pamela attend our event, ‘ An Evening with Marion Bartoli’. It was wonderful to see her engaging with guests and speaking so passionately about the collaboration between our charities. Pamela also delivered an extremely informative presentation on the vital work carried out by the British Liver Trust”.
The British Liver Trust is the leading liver health charity in the UK, dedicated to improving liver health for all and supporting those affected by liver disease or cancer. Their work encompasses a comprehensive range of services aimed at prevention, early detection, patient support, and advocacy.
Prevention and Early Detection
The Trust emphasises the importance of early detection and prevention of liver disease. Through initiatives like the 'Love Your Liver' campaign, they offer free online risk assessments and mobile screening units that visit communities and workplaces across the UK. These efforts aim to identify individuals at risk and encourage early intervention, which is crucial for effective treatment outcomes.
Patient Support Services
Recognising the challenges faced by those living with liver conditions, the British Liver Trust provides a range of support services. They offer a free helpline, online and face-to-face support groups, and comprehensive information resources tailored to various liver diseases. These services are designed to provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community for patients and their families.
Research and Clinical Trials
The Trust is actively involved in liver research, supporting clinical trials and studies aimed at improving the understanding and treatment of liver diseases. By funding and facilitating research, they contribute to the development of new therapies and interventions that can enhance patient care and outcomes.
Advocacy and Policy Influence
Advocacy is a cornerstone of the British Liver Trust's mission. They work closely with policymakers, healthcare professionals, and other organisations to influence public health strategies and policies related to liver health. Their efforts aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure equitable access to care for all individuals affected by liver disease.
Collaborations and Community Engagement
In April 2024, the British Liver Trust merged with the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation, combining resources and expertise to provide seamless care and support across all ages. This collaboration strengthens their ability to address the diverse needs of individuals affected by liver disease, from childhood through adulthood.
Through these multifaceted efforts, the British Liver Trust plays a pivotal role in transforming liver health in the UK, offering hope, support, and a path toward better health for those affected by liver conditions.
