The Williams Syndrome Foundation was formed as a Registered Charity in 1980, with the aims of promoting research and providing help and support for families with affected children. The Foundation acts as an information and advisory service and keeps parents in touch through magazines, events and a nationwide regional network, as well as funding holidays for WS people every year. The Foundation organises regular online and national meetings as well as local gatherings for families. It also keeps a register of all known WS cases and provides access to professionals to promote research to improve the lives of the WS population.
Williams Syndrome is a rare congenital disorder that occurs randomly and affects around one in 18,000 people in the UK. It is non-hereditary and causes distinctive facial characteristics and a wide range of learning difficulties. Infants often have delayed development and can develop physical and mental health problems, including anxiety and depression in later life. WS people tend to be talkative and excessively friendly towards adults.
There is no cure for Williams Syndrome because it is not an illness, and there is no way to prevent the genetic abnormality that causes it. Early diagnosis will not prevent potential problems but can lead to a better understanding and better assistance for the child. There may be raised levels of calcium (hypercalcaemia) in the blood within the first two years of life – in these cases, a low-calcium diet can stabilise the situation. Some WS children are educated in mainstream schools with assistance but the majority require the support offered in specialist schools.
People with Williams Syndrome and those who love, care for and educate them
Online resources and information
Regular online and national meetings, and local family gatherings (locations vary)
Free online membership provides access to resources and online support groups
There is a cost for Full Membership providing access to printed resources, events and subsidised holidays, please see website for further details.
There are numerous benefits to becoming a member of the Foundation. Research helps current and future generations. There are Regional Contacts around the country – all are parents of WS children / adults – who keep in touch with local families, arrange meetings, organise awareness, fundraising, social and information events.
The WS Foundation is run by families for families and is funded entirely through voluntary donations. All income goes directly to research and welfare, apart from minimal administrative expenses.
Visit the Joining WSF page on the Williams Syndrome Foundation website
General enquiries: 0208 567 1374
Membership enquiries: 07838 348577
Email: enquiries@williams-syndrome.org.uk
For more information about Williams Syndrome Foundation search Williams Syndrome Foundation in this directory.
Visit the Williams Syndrome Foundation website
Visit the Williams Syndrome Foundation UK Facebook page
