About us The difference we make The difference we make When things get challenging or difficult, it can be hard to know where to turn. The right information about care and treatment can sometimes be confusing or hard to find. When patients and their families need help, we aim to ensure they get it by providing information and guidance. We believe that everyone has the right to receive the very best care when they need it most. Why are we here? In the 1960s, with the NHS only in its teenage years, thousands of babies were born with serious birth defects due to the prescription of thalidomide for morning sickness. In the furore between pharmaceuticals and health services, no one was speaking up for patients – until the Patients Association was founded in January 1963. Now, at over 60 years old, the NHS is in a crisis and patients are suffering - there has never been a more important time for the Patients Association to act for patients. Today we remain the only national campaigning charity covering all of health and social care that also works directly with patients. "You are the only vehicle for patients to be heard as a single voice." - Patients Association member There's absolutely no way we could do the work we do without you, which is why we value your support so highly. How we achieve this Call us for information and guidance We know that sometimes it helps just to chat things through with someone. We're here to listen to your queries and our dedicated helpline advisers are at the other end of the phone. Our helpline takes calls every weekday from people who have questions about their health or social care and want to find out more. "You have helped me feel empowered, you are wonderful.” - Helpline caller Ring our free and confidential helpline If you'd prefer, you can send us an email at [email protected]. Raising our voice We raise what matters to you to those who can do something about it. By regularly talking to the national media, we provide a voice for all patients, based on what we hear from our helpline and other points of contact. We listen to what you have to tell us and speak up to decision-makers: we are regularly approached for input by government, the NHS and parliamentarians. Get involved We offer our members and supporters opportunities to get involved with us and organisations like the NHS through our project work, events and surveys. Join us and you too can influence healthcare. Find out about our membership opportunities All of us are better when we work together We passionately believe that joining forces with others is often the best way to get great results. We collaborate with NHS trusts as well as universities, colleges and care homes to deliver projects to improve services by involving patients. "These sessions developed my professional working skills. It is interesting communicating at a 'patient level' with the public whilst doing the surveys." - Student nurse Partnerships can produce really wonderful outcomes. Our incredible partners are equally as motivated by the goal of raising standards for patients. Working in collaboration with a range of other organisations helps us always keep the bigger picture in mind, no matter how difficult the problem might seem to solve. "The project helped the matrons to understand the impact of the small things that can make a difference to a patient's experience." - Head of Patient Experience Find out about how your organisation can work with us Annual review 2024 Read our 2024 annual review to find out more about our work and impact. Manage Cookie Preferences