Asthma UK (AUK) and the British Lung Foundation (BLF) will merge after the final step in the formal process was completed on Monday 9 December.
Both organisations announced their intention to merge in November ahead of a vote by AUK’s members at an extraordinary general meeting on 2 December and a meeting of the BLF’s board of trustees yesterday.
With the formal preparations completed, the newly formed Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Partnership is now looking forward to continuing to safeguard and improve the nation’s respiratory health.
The new organisation will strengthen and build on previous collaborations between the BLF and AUK, such as the Taskforce for Lung Health, BREATHE – the Health Data Research Hub for Respiratory Health and campaigning to deliver safer air. It will make for a stronger force for research and support for those with asthma and other lung diseases.
The merger will save significant amounts on running costs, freeing up more funding for charitable purposes. It is expected up to £2 million could be released each year for world-leading research, support services and campaigning.
Kay Boycott, Chief Executive of the Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Partnership, said: “This marks the start of a new era which promises to bring significant benefits to people affected by asthma and other lung diseases. Bringing together our joint vision and strategy will allow us to make even more impact, with more money to spend on ground-breaking research and support.
“Our new organisation will combine the energy and passion of the UK’s top respiratory health charities, creating a powerful voice for change.
“It is an absolute privilege to be the first Chief Executive of the new organisation leading the start up of this innovative new venture.”
The merger is a partnership of equals and will be directed by an executive team and trustees drawn from both AUK and the BLF.
The core charitable activities – research programmes, campaigning, helplines, and websites – of both organisations will continue and the BLF and AUK identities will still be used.
Leading experts in asthma and lung health welcomed the merger, saying it will bring real benefits to patients now and in years to come.
