Festive Wishes

At this time of year, many of us pause to reflect. For some, it is a joyful season filled with celebration, connection and warmth; for others, it can feel quieter, more complicated, or even overwhelming. Wherever you find yourself this Christmas, we want you to know that you are an important part of the ASUK community, and you are not alone.

As we look ahead to the New Year, we do so with hope and optimism. We are excited to be preparing new research projects set to get under way in the coming months, and we are looking forward to sharing more about these soon. We are also pleased to let you know that our printed ASUK newsletter will be delivered in the New Year, offering another way to stay connected with our work and with one another.

In this e-news, you’ll find a few gentle ways to support yourself and get involved — from top tips to help stay calm through the festive chaos, to an exciting save the date for our very first Family Festival, coming this summer. You’ll also find opportunities to share your voice as part of the Rare Disease Day campaign, helping to raise awareness and make sure lived experiences are heard.

We are so grateful to each and every one of you for being part of our diverse, supportive and compassionate community. As the year draws to a close, we send our warmest wishes to you and those close to you, and we look forward to walking alongside you in the year ahead.

We couldn’t resist including a fabulous festive picture, from our recent children’s clinic in Birmingham, where Santa flew in to surprise the children!

With heartfelt thanks and seasonal wishes,
The ASUK Team

Festivities Begin!

Unwrapping Calm

Protect Yourself this Winter

Top Tips to stay well from the NHS

• Keep warm during the day. Wrap up in lots of layers of thin clothes, even when you go to bed. Keep doors closed to block draughts. Try to heat rooms you regularly use to at least 18°C. 
• Keep moving. Move around indoors and try to get outside for a walk. Avoid sitting for more than one hour.
• Wrap up at night. Wear layers to bed, including socks. Use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket. (Don’t use a hot water bottle and electric blanket together.) Keep your windows closed at night.
• Eat well. Make sure you eat a balanced diet with lots of seasonal fruit and vegetables. And try to eat at least one hot meal a day.
• Stay hydrated. Regular meals and hot drinks can help you keep warm.
• Have your medication on hand. Make sure you have the right medicines at home in case you get poorly. Ask your pharmacist if you’re not sure what medications you should have.
• Stop the spread of germs. Protect yourself and others by washing your hands with warm, soapy water, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and wearing a mask in public spaces.
• Look after your mental health. The winter months can take a toll on our mental wellbeing, so make sure you’re looking after your mental health, just as you do your physical health. If you are feeling down, speak to someone – a friend, family member, or a healthcare professional like your doctor. 

Rare Disease Day – All About Equity
28th February 2026

Our First Family Festival 
Save the Date!

We are absolutely delighted to share some exciting news for the summer ahead!

Thanks to newly secured Sport England funding, we are busy planning a Family Festival on Saturday 11th July 2026 at New College Worcester.

This will be a joyful, fun-filled day of sports and activities for adults, children and families of all ages — a chance to come together, have some fun, try something new, and connect with others in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you’re coming along with family, friends, or on your own, this is a day designed for everyone to enjoy.

📅 Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
📍 Venue: New College Worcester

To register your interest and be the first to hear more, please email Catherine.
📧 catherine.lewis@alstrom.org.uk

Together Fund

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