About us Background Our history The Patients Association is one of the oldest and most distinctive health and care charities in the UK. Our remit is not condition or organ-specific, but covers all issues that affect patients – and in the modern world, this of necessity includes social care and public health. We work with patients directly: they are our members and supporters, and also the people who benefit from our help and advice services. We also speak to government, the NHS and others about patients' priorities and concerns, to ensure the patient voice is heard and acted upon. First established in 1963 by Helen Hodgson, a part-time teacher who was motivated by recent events concerning the drug thalidomide, and reports of patients receiving the wrong treatment and tests being carried out on patients without their informed consent. The Patients Association has a long history of investigating health and care concerns raised by patients, monitoring trends in patient satisfaction and promoting good practice amongst healthcare professionals. Our work has helped to shape health policy, has provided information, advice and support for patients and their families, and has directly contributed to improvements in patients’ experience most notably in improving complaints management in the NHS. The tireless efforts of our staff and supporters make mean we can continue to strive for a better world for all. Why not join us? Become a member and play a vital role in making sure everyone can assess high quality health and social care Be a part of our history by volunteering Help us to do even more for patients and their families by fundraising for us.