$1.9m To Improve Care For Thalidomide Survivors In Wales

First Minister Carwyn Jones announced on Friday ??1.9million for the Thalidomide Trust to improve the care and support for thalidomide survivors in Wales.


The funding which will be available from April will be distributed amongst survivors to help meet their health needs and minimise any further deterioration of their condition.


This funding will be in addition to ??20million announced by the Department of Health last month for the Thalidomide Trust for a pilot scheme to support thalidomiders, as they refer to themselves.


Between 1958 and 1961, the drug, thalidomide, was used by expectant mothers to control symptoms of morning sickness. Tragically, this led to many babies being born with often severe physical disabilities. There are 31 thalidomiders in Wales.


The First Minister, who will meet thalidomide survivors in Gorseinon, Swansea today, said: "I believe that addressing the ongoing needs of thalidomiders rests with the UK Government as it authorised the use of thalidomide. While survivors in Wales will have access to a share of the funding announced by the Department of Health, I wanted to provide additional funding to ensure that people affected by thalidomide in Wales receive the care and support they need.


"I am pleased that the UK Government has expressed its sincere regret and deep sympathy for the injury and suffering endured by all those affected
when expectant mothers took the drug between 1958 and 1961.


"The funding I am announcing today will help thalidomiders manage the continuing and increasing health needs as they get older.


"We will be working with the Thalidomide Trust on how this funding will be distributed to maximise the benefits for individuals."


Nick Dobrik, representative of the National Advisory Group for the Thalidomide Trust and leading campaigner, said: "On behalf of the thalidomide community, we would like to thank the Welsh Assembly Government for its speed and generosity in contributing to helping thalidomiders maintain their independence."


Source
Welsh Assembly Government