Issue 148: September 2026
IN TOUCH
WELCOME If you are a new reader, welcome! Our monthly e-newsletter is your go-to source for the latest updates from the National Kidney Federation. Whether you’re a patient, family member, a healthcare professional or a supporter, this newsletter is designed to keep you informed and connected.
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Each month, we share the latest updates and opportunities in the renal world. Thank you for supporting our charity, we hope you enjoy this issue! All the best, The National Kidney Federation
Help us continue to provide a lifeline of support to those living with kidney disease.
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Issue 148: September 2026
We will be joined by Karen Nagalingam and Emma Taylor
To discuss how to make the most of your dialysis Karen and Emma will explore how to enhance the experience of patients on haemodialysis by examining what occurs during treatment. They aim to identify current activities, such as health reviews, entertainment, education, and exercise support, while also determining patients' preferences. The goal is to assess successful initiatives and consider their implementation in other units to improve patient quality of life during dialysis sessions.
NKF ANNUAL EVENT
We’re Heading Back to Blackpool! Our Annual Event will be taking place in just over 3 weeks time and we can’t wait to meet so many of you, to catch up, introduce ourselves to some new faces, hear from the experts and also individuals who will be sharing their experiences with kidney disease. Not to forget our exhibitors who will be on standby to provide their services and share the latest they have to offer. Expect a jam packed weekend full of information, support and a safe place where you can network with likeminded people.
There’s still time to book and join us! If you would like to join us in Blackpool on 2 and 3 October 2026 at Grand Hotel Blackpool, FY1 2JQ - everyone is welcome! Spaces are filling very quickly, so make sure you book your place today! For the full programme and to book today visit: www.kidney.org.uk/Event/nkf-annual-event-2026
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0800 169 09 36
helpline@kidney.org.uk
www.kidney.org.uk
Issue 148: September 2026
Upcoming Events 22 September 2026 Voices to Vision: Patients and Carers Online Event 23 September 2026 Voices to Vision: Patients and Carers Online Event
Organ Donation Week - Share Your Stories
16 - 17 September 2026 Dialysis Society Conference
We want to hear from you! As Organ Donation Week approaches, we want to hear your stories about organ donation, both from those who have given and those who have received.
2 - 3 October 2026 The NKF Annual Event
We want to make sure everyone knows the importance of organ donation for kidney patients. If you’d like to share your story, then please email: nkf@kidney.org.uk
4 November 2026 CKD Fatigue & Anaemia
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0800 169 09 36
helpline@kidney.org.uk
www.kidney.org.uk
Issue 148: September 2026
Now Is The Time to Make Your Voice Heard
Patients, carers and families have a vital role in shaping the future of kidney care. Voices to Vision is an opportunity to share your experiences, speak up about the changes that matter most, and help shape a new national strategy for kidney disease. Your experience can help make a difference. Join the conversation and help shape what comes next. Join one of our free upcoming virtual listening events: 22 September | 18:00–20:00 23 September | 12:00–14:00 We’ll explore the key issues facing kidney care today, look at where improvements can be made, and think about what the future of kidney services should look like. Find out more here and register your interest: www.kidney.org.uk/msf-update
Have you already taken part in a Voices to Vision Event? Have you already taken part in a Voices to Vision event? Complete our patient and carer listening survey: https://bit.ly/4xIzpez
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0800 169 09 36
helpline@kidney.org.uk
www.kidney.org.uk
Issue 148: September 2026
NKF HELPLINE
It Is Ok To Talk About How You Feel
This information is for people living with kidney disease, as well as their families and carers. Kidney disease affects more than your kidneys. It can influence everyday life, relationships, work, confidence, and emotional wellbeing. Many people feel worried about the future, sad, frustrated, lonely, or tired much of the time. These feelings are common and understandable. You are not alone. Some people worry about being a burden on their family. Others find that friends and relatives do not fully understand what they are going through because kidney disease is often an invisible condition. Although other people may not see the challenges you face, your experiences and feelings are important. It is important to talk openly with your kidney team about how you are feeling. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals want to understand your emotional wellbeing as well as your medical results. You may feel shy, think the team is busy, or see different staff members at each appointment. Even so, your concerns matter and it is always OK to raise them. Many people think of questions after they leave a clinic appointment. You may wonder what your test results mean, whether your condition is changing, what treatments are available, or how kidney disease may affect work, travel, food, and drink choices. No question is silly and asking for information can help you feel more confident and informed.
If you become unwell between appointments, tell your healthcare team or doctor as soon as possible. Some subjects can be difficult to discuss, including tiredness, financial worries, employment concerns, family pressures, loneliness, or difficulties following treatment advice. Support is available. The National Kidney Federation (NKF) provides trusted information, practical guidance, and emotional support for people affected by kidney disease. The NKF helpline is staffed by people with personal experience of kidney disease who understand the challenges patients and families face. The organisation can also connect you with trained peer supporters who have lived through similar experiences, including dialysis and kidney transplantation. Remember that your feelings matter just as much as your test results. You do not have to manage kidney disease alone. Support, understanding, and reliable information are available whenever you need them. NKF Helpline: 0800 169 0936 | Email: helpline@kidney.org.uk | Website: www.kidney.org.uk The National Kidney Federation Helpline phone is answered very quickly and you get straight to a human voice and speak to actual patients who have lived experience of kidney disease, dialysis and transplants.
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0800 169 09 36
helpline@kidney.org.uk
www.kidney.org.uk
UPCOMING EVENTS N I U O Y O T G N I M O C 2027 14 FEB 2027
17 JUNE 2027
BARCELONA MARATHON
KILIMANJARO TREK
Take on the streets of Barcelona and run for a cause.
Push your limits and conquer Africa’s highest peak.
21 FEB 2027
25 JUNE 2027
MEDIA CITY HALF MARATHON
HADRIAN’S WALL TREK
Lace up, take on 13.1 miles and turn every step into support.
Step into history and take on an unforgettable challenge.
4 APRIL 2027
21 JULY 2027
LONDON LANDMARKS MARATHON
LONDON TO PARIS BIKE RIDE
Run through the heart of London, past iconic landmarks.
Ride from London to Paris, challenge yourself and make a lasting difference.
VISIT WWW.KIDNEY.ORG.UK OR TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A FUNDRAISING EVENT CONTACT SUZANNE@KIDNEY.ORG.UK
Issue 148: September 2026
Meet Nick: Taking on the Steel City to Raise Funds for the NKF
Remember A Charity
A gift in your Will can help ensure that the National Kidney Federation continues to support kidney patients, carers and families for generations to come.
We’d love to introduce you our NKF Peer Supporter and upcoming guest speaker at the NKF Annual Event, Nick Papé! Nick and his daughter Eva will be tackling the Steel City’s infamous hills at the Jane Tomlinson's Run For All #Sheffield10K on Sunday 27 September to raise money in aid of the NKF. They have raised an incredible £1,246 already, thank you Nick and Eva! They hope, with your help, to reach the £1,500 milestone. Please help to spur them on by donating whatever you can afford, every penny is appreciated.
By leaving a legacy gift, you'll help us provide vital information, support services, campaigning, and a voice for everyone affected by kidney disease across the UK. Every gift, no matter its size, can make a lasting difference, helping us continue our work and create a better future for the kidney community. Learn more: www.kidney.org.uk/legacy-giving
You can support Nick and Eva below: https://www.justgiving.com/page/nickandeva And if their fundraising has inspired you too, we have lots of running challenges available via Run for Charity: https://bit.ly/4dnYQK5
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0800 169 09 36
helpline@kidney.org.uk
www.kidney.org.uk
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