DEBRA is the national charity working on behalf of individuals and families affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) - a rare genetic condition which causes the skin to blister and shear at the slightest friction, or even spontaneously. There are at least 5,000 people living with this devastating condition in the UK and 500,000 worldwide.

EB has a number of distinct forms: at its mildest, blistering is confined to the hands and feet. In more severe cases, the whole body is affected and wounds heal very slowly, giving rise to scarring, physical deformity and significant disability. Blistering can also affect inner body linings, such as the mouth and oesophagus and, in its most advanced form, EB can be fatal in infancy.

DEBRA was founded in 1978 and provides an expert team of nurses and social care staff to work directly with families affected by EB. The charity also commissions world-leading research into the condition with the aim of finding effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for EB. Because DEBRA receives no government funding, DEBRA relies on the generosity of the public to carry out its vital work, improving lives and giving hope.

For further information on DEBRA, please telephone 01344 771961 or visit our website www.debra.org.uk.