The Federation was first mooted in 2001 when a working party, set up by PSA at a general meeting in 2000, proposed the establishment of an umbrella organisation that would focus the work of the many independent local patient-led support groups across the country, and, through synergy, allow small groups to harness the totality of their resources.
This working party, which included representatives from four of the major patient-led support groups, focused on a way forward for the community of prostate support associations in the UK, and outlined the basis for federation. Subsequent work generated the necessary documentation required for application for charity status, which was achieved in March 2008. Funding for this work was supplemented by £6,000 raised at a Charity Day held at Dummer Golf Club. This money was ring-fenced and reserved for use when the Federation was fully established.
Initial progress was slow, for a variety of reasons, but over the past twelve months we have made great strides. In particular we have refined a Constitution that reflects well the aspirations of the original founders, whilst maintaining the essential independence of member organisations. In addition we have developed ideas for a National Help Line, ready to be implemented when approved by an expanded membership.
Finally, and thanks to the generosity of Prostate UK, we held our Launch Event at Imperial College London, which was addressed by several eminent and internationally known speakers.
