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Issue 139: January 2026

IN TOUCH WELCOME If you are a new reader, welcome! Our monthly In Touch e-newsletter is your go to source for the latest updates from the National Kidney Federation.

You’ll also find opportunities to get involved, whether through fundraising or simply to help raise awareness.

Whether you’re a patient, family member a healthcare professional or a supporter, this newsletter is designed to keep you informed and connected.

Thank you for supporting our charity, we hope you enjoy this issue!

Each month, we share the latest updates in the renal world, highlight upcoming events and campaigns and provide updates on the work we’re doing to support kidney patients across the UK.

All the best, The National Kidney Federation

CONTENTS News: 2-5 KPA News: 7 Helpline Information: 8-9 Fundraising: 10 Patient Involvement: 11 Become a Member: 12

WEBINARS

ISSUE 139 JANUARY 2026

POTENTIAL ORGANS FOR TRANSPLANTATION This week, the NKF and NHSBT teamed up to host a webinar on progress in increasing the use of donated organs for transplantation in the UK and reducing variation between transplant centres. We were extremely fortunate to be joined by a panel of influential and knowledgeable speakers who shared inspiring insights, alongside important data and developments in this area. The presentation slides are now available to view on our website: www.kidney.org.uk/Event/nkf-webinar-series

LIVING WELL WITH IGA NEPHROPATHY PATIENT WEBINAR The NKF is pleased to be hosting a Living Well with IgA Nephropathy patient webinar. This will take place on Wednesday 18 February 6-7pm. More information about the webinar, including registration details will be shared very soon.

0800 169 09 36

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

NEWS

ISSUE 139 JANUARY 2026

7 MILLION LIVES AT RISK - WHAT’S THE PLAN? CAMPAIGN UPDATE

7 Million Lives at Risk - What’s the Plan? is a campaign with the National Kidney Federation, UKKA, Kidney Research UK, Kidney Care UK and the PKD charity calling on the government to commit to a national strategy on kidney disease, a Kidney Disease Modern Service Framework and there are two key updates to provide on the work in this area. Write to your MP about your personal experience of kidney disease Firstly, we are asking for your support by writing to your MP to share your personal journey of kidney disease and urging them to write to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, and ask what the Government is doing to address the growing challenge of kidney disease. We know that there are around 7.2 million people in the UK living with kidney disease, that’s roughly 11,000 for each MP constituency. By writing to your MP, you can help ensure kidney disease is taken seriously and support the call for a Modern Service Framework on kidney disease. The National Kidney Federation has made it easy to write to your local MP with a ready-to-use template letter, just add your personal experience and send. Find all the information here to write to your MP. www.kidney.org.uk/7-million-lives-at-riskwhats-the-plan 0800 169 09 36

Get involved in the listening events to help shape the future of kidney care Secondly, we are working with the UK Kidney Association, NHS leaders and kidney professionals to co-develop a community informed national strategy, exploring what the community thinks should be prioritised to improve care and outcomes for people living with kidney disease. The project titled ‘Voices to Vision’ will include a number of free to attend, listening events across England to capture what matters most to the people at the heart of kidney disease and there will be a virtual launch of this on the 4 February. Whilst the kidney disease strategy will focus on England, it aims to recognise the impact in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and voices from all devolved nations are welcome to attend and participate. For more information on these events and how to register your interest in attending visit our website: www.kidney.org.uk/7-million-lives-at-riskwhats-the-plan

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

0800 169 09 36

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

NEWS

ISSUE 139 JANUARY 2026

NKF KIDNEY PATIENT ASSOCIATION DAY 2026 Registration is now open for KPA Day, the event will be held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel, Birmingham on Saturday 14th March 2026. We are excited to be welcoming Kidney Patient Associations from across the UK to what promises to be an inspiring and energising day. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to come together face to face, with ample time for networking, connection, and collaboration, as well as the chance to hear directly from KPAs sharing their stories, experiences and examples of best practice. The first part of the day will see the Annual General Meeting take place, where our trustees are elected for the year, followed by the council meeting. For the next part of the day, we are delighted to announce that Professor Smeeta Sinha, Consultant Nephrologist and National Clinical Director for Renal Medicine, will be a guest speaker. Professor Sinha will provide valuable insights and updates on the latest developments across the renal landscape. We are also pleased to be joined by Ron Cullen, CEO of the UK Kidney Association (UKKA), who will share perspectives on the UKKA’s work and its impact across renal care in the UK. The afternoon will be dedicated to KPA led learning and shared experiences, before bringing the day to a celebratory close with the very first KPA Awards ceremony. The awards will recognise and celebrate outstanding contribution and leadership, including KPA Member of the Year, KPA Chair of the Year and KPA of the Year. 0800 169 09 36

If you are a KPA member and would like to register to attend, please complete the online booking form: www.kidney.org.uk/kpa-day-sign-up KPA Awards – How to Vote Public voting is now open! When you vote, it’s important to pitch why your candidate or KPA deserves to win. Winners won’t be decided by the number of votes, but by how strong and detailed your nomination is for the judges to consider. To place your nomination, please click on the links below: KPA of the Year https://bit.ly/kpaoftheyear KPA Chair of the Year https://bit.ly/kpachairoftheyear KPA Member of the Year https://bit.ly/kpamemberoftheyear

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

KIDNEY PATIENT ASSOCIATION NEWS

ISSUE 139 JANUARY 2026

STRIKES OF SUPPORT IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE The Gloucestershire Kidney Patients Association recently hosted a fantastic bowling event for young adults and families living with kidney disease. The atmosphere couldn’t have been more uplifting. The afternoon brought together a wonderful group of people eager to connect, have fun, and enjoy a well-deserved break from the challenges of daily treatment and health routines. Laughter filled the lanes as everyone cheered each other on, celebrated strikes, and shared stories in a relaxed, supportive environment. The event not only offered a fun activity but also helped build a sense of community, reminding participants that they’re not facing their journey alone. Many left with new friendships, renewed confidence, and a sense of belonging. It was a heart warming reminder of the strength, positivity, and resilience within the kidney community, and Gloucestershire Kidney Patients Association looks forward to hosting more events that bring joy, connection, and support to those affected by kidney disease across Gloucestershire. Find out more about Gloucestershire KPA: Visit https://gloskpa.org/ Email gloskpa@gmail.com

0800 169 09 36

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

HELPLINE

ISSUE 139 JANUARY 2026

STAYING FIT WITH KIDNEY DISEASE Physical fitness plays a vital role in maintaining health and wellbeing, even for individuals with kidney disease. Exercise strengthens the body, boosts energy, and improves overall quality of life. People with kidney disease can safely engage in vigorous physical activity when properly guided. Benefits of Exercise Regular exercise offers numerous advantages, including: Improved muscle physical functioning Better blood pressure control Improved muscle strength Lowered level of blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) Better sleep Better control of body weight Consult Your Doctor First Before starting any exercise program, it’s essential to consult your doctor. A safe and effective plan should consider: Type of exercise Duration Frequency Intensity

Warm up at the start, increase pace gradually, and cool down before finishing. Timing and Safety Schedule exercise during cooler parts of the day, ideally morning or evening. Wait at least one hour after a large meal and avoid exercising right before bedtime. When to Stop Stop exercising immediately if you experience: Tiredness Shortness of breath Chest pain Irregular or rapid heartbeats Sickness to your stomach Leg cramps Dizziness or become light-headed When Not to Exercise Avoid exercise without medical advice if you have: Fever Changes in dialysis or medication schedule Significant changes in physical condition Overeaten Joint or bone pain worsened by activity Hot, humid weather (unless indoors with air conditioning)

Choosing the Right Exercise Opt for continuous activities that engage large muscle groups, such as walking, swimming, cycling, skiing, or aerobic dancing. Light strength training using low weights and high repetitions If exercise is interrupted for any reason, can also be beneficial, but avoid heavy lifting. consult your doctor before resuming. Duration and Frequency Aim for 30 minutes per session, gradually building up to this level. Longer sessions (45–60 minutes) are acceptable if tolerated. Exercise at least three non consecutive days per week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, for example, to achieve meaningful benefits. Intensity Guidelines Exercise at a “comfortable push” level. You should be able to talk while exercising. Recovery should occur within an hour post-workout. Avoid excessive soreness that prevents the next session. 0800 169 09 36

Further Guidance For personalised recommendations, always consult your healthcare provider for guidance. The National Kidney Federation has a series of Exercise leaflets written by specialists with clear instructions for many types of exercise for kidney patients of all ages. We also have an exercise Information Pack which includes all our exercise leaflets in one handy folder. To request any leaflets in full or our Exercise pack, please contact the helpline: Email helpline@kidney.org.uk or call 0800 169 0936.

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

HELPLINE

ISSUE 139 JANUARY 2026

UPDATED PATIENT SUPPORT PACK - NOW AVAILABLE! This updated booklet is suitable for people recently diagnosed with kidney disease, their carers, or healthcare professionals who want to provide patients with clear guidance. It helps explain treatment options and provides essential information about kidney disease and dialysis. How to Order Printed Copies To order a free copy or to bulk order, please do not hesitate to contact the NKF Helpline team on 0800 169 09 36 or email helpline@kidney.org.uk. View the Patient Support Pack online: www.kidney.org.uk/helpline-leaflets

0800 169 09 36

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS IN 2026 MAY

10 MAY

LEEDS MARATHON

EDINBURGH MARATHON

JULY

YORKSHIRE THREE PEAKS TREK

SEPT

24 PEAKS TREK

SEPT

BEN NEVIS

KILIMANJARO TREK

SEPT

SPANISH THREE PEAKS TREK

And so much more!

Get involved and support the NKF today

www.kidney.org.uk For more details or queries on how to sign up for a fundraising event, please contact nkf@kidney.org.uk 0800 169 09 36

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

PATIENT INVOLVEMENT

ISSUE 139 JANUARY 2026

NKF KPA MEMBERS Currently there are 53 Kidney Patient Associations (KPAs) who are members of the NKF. Please find the details below of the KPAs available or for more information please contact the NKF office on 01909 544 999 or email chris@kidney.org.uk.

Chris Talbot NKF Membership Development Lead If you are a KPA that would like to become an NKF member, please contact chris@kidney.org.uk or call 07908 845713. We are proud to support KPAs and to be the patient voice across the UK. Find your local KPA today: www.kidney.org.uk/kidney-patient-associations

PATIENT PARTICIPATION OPPORTUNITIES Discover opportunities to share your experience and support kidney research. The NKF have created a page online where you can explore all the current opportunities to take part in studies, surveys and interviews run by healthcare professionals and medical students. These projects aim to deepen understanding of kidney disease and your insights could make a real difference. Explore the opportunities available now: https://bit.ly/patientparticipationopportunities

0800 169 09 36

helpline@kidney.org.uk

www.kidney.org.uk

ISSUE 135 SEPTEMBER 2025

BECOME A MEMBER https://bit.ly/nkfmembership

JOIN NOW!

Join the NKF Community and Make a Difference. From just £3 a month—you can join the NKF community. Your membership will help us continue providing essential support to kidney patients and their families across the UK.

Why join the NKF? Support vital patient services — your membership helps fund our free Helpline, Peer Support, and advocacy across the UK. Receive exclusive member benefits What you get 10% OFF Voucher Discount on select items in the NKF online shop plus exclusive member-only discount days. Invites to special NKF events and discounted entry to our Annual Event. Early notice of upcoming sales, campaigns, events and more.

Your membership helps do so much Keep our Helpline running — the NKF Helpline is a lifeline for thousands of patients. Many call when they need immediate help, guidance or just someone who understands. Membership donations help ensure this free service remains available. Fund educational support — our library of kidney health leaflets (PIF-certified) stays current and free for patients, renal units, and GPs. Your membership helps us create and distribute these resources nationwide. Advocate for better care and policy — with member support we campaign for improved kidney care, influence policy, and push for accessible treatments across the UK. Support local Kidney Patient Associations (KPAs) — your contribution helps sustain over 50 KPAs across the UK, strengthening local support networks and patient voices.

Together, we can bring hope and support to kidney patients and their families across the UK. Join now https://bit.ly/nkfmembership