What we do

Engage. Enable. Empower.

Working throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Shine is a community of over 12,500 members, their families, and professionals. Together, we share achievements, challenges, and information about life with spina bifida, hydrocephalus, and related issues.

The difference your fundraising can make...

Many of Shine’s services are entirely funded by the generosity of fundraisers and donors to fund our specialist support service, which is available to families pre-birth, at the point of diagnosis, and to children, young people, and adults living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus throughout their lives which is why your fundraising means the world to Shine.

Because of your support, our national support and development service provides a lifeline for members, through our network of local Support and Development Workers (SDWs) and a team of health, education, and disability benefits specialists.

Thank you.

Aunt of young man with spina bifida and hydrocephalus says...

“...I had to watch my sister come to terms with having a disabled child, not really knowing what the future would hold for this tiny little baby, born with so many complications. I didn’t know what to do.

Someone put us in touch with Shine and as soon as my sister had spoken to the Support and Development Worker, I just knew things were going to be alright. Shine understood, and could offer the expertise and information that no one else could...”

 

Your fundraising means we can provide the following services: 

  • Expert health advice for individuals and professionals involved in their care 
  • School visits to support the learning and inclusion of children with the conditions 
  • Family events and peer support groups for new parents, children and older adults 
  • Home or hospital visits to new parents who often feel at ‘breaking point’ 
  • Specialist support to access disability benefits and guidance on wide-ranging independence issues 
  • Legal service

The impact your fundraising can make to our members...

Dara's Story

"Our support and development worker, enlightened us to so many things that Dara was eligible for, such as statements, blue badge, and more - things we would never have thought about."

Read more about Dara and the support his family has received from Shine:

Dara's Story

 

Ivy's Story

"We know Shine will always be there for us should we need them."

Read more about Ivy and the support she has received from Shine:

Ivy's Story


Your fundraising is making a real difference to the lives of people with spina bifida, hydrocephalus and related issues. Thank you.

Click here to find out more about the conditions.

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