Birmingham Insurance Institute names MDS UK Charity of the Year
30 Jul. 2026More people affected by Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) will benefit from increased awareness, support and fundraising after MDS Support UK was named Birmingham Insurance Institute's (BII) Charity of the Year for 2026/27.
Helping more people affected by MDS, find support
This partnership will shine a light on Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), a group of rare blood cancers, helping more patients and families access trusted information, practical support and a welcoming community. Together, we want to increase understanding of MDS so that more people affected by the condition know where to turn when they need help.
The difference this will make
For many people, MDS is something they have never heard of until they or someone they love is diagnosed. Receiving a diagnosis of a rare blood cancer can feel overwhelming, and knowing where to find trusted information and support can make a real difference.
Through this partnership, we hope more patients and families will discover MDS Support UK when they need us most. Together, Birmingham Insurance Institute and MDS Support UK will raise awareness of MDS, engage members, deliver fundraising initiatives and help ensure that more people affected by the condition know where to turn for information, support and community.
How BII chose MDS UK
Helen Holyoake, President of Birmingham Insurance Institute, said:
"As President of the Birmingham Insurance Institute, I am deeply proud to partner with MDS Support UK as my chosen charity. Their work brings vital clarity, compassion and guidance to families facing Myelodysplastic Syndromes. I lost my father to this condition, and I didn't know about MDS Support UK at the time — something I wish had been different. That is why helping them widen their reach into Birmingham and the wider West Midlands means so much to me. By supporting their mission, we can ensure that more families receive the understanding and support mine never had, turning awareness into meaningful action and hope."
Dr Blossom Bell, Chief Executive Officer of MDS Support UK, said:
"We are delighted to have been chosen as Birmingham Insurance Institute's Charity of the Year. MDS remains a little-known rare blood cancer, and this partnership provides an important opportunity to raise awareness and increase understanding of the condition. We look forward to working with Birmingham Insurance Institute and its members to help ensure more patients and families know where to turn for information, support and community."
What's next?
We'll be sharing updates on our fundraising activities and the impact of this partnership throughout the year, so keep an eye on our website and social media to see what we achieve together.
Our sincere thanks go to Birmingham Insurance Institute for choosing MDS Support UK as its Charity of the Year. We look forward to making a meaningful difference together.
Find information, support and community from MDS UK
Helen's experience is a reminder that many people don't discover MDS Support UK until after a diagnosis. Through partnerships like this, we're working to change that.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by MDS, we're here to help with trusted information, practical support and opportunities to connect with others who understand.
- You can download our comprehensive MDS Patient Guide for clear, reliable information about living with MDS.
- Find out how MDS is treated and what options might be right for you on our MDS Treatments page
- You don’t have to face MDS alone — explore our Support section for practical advice and emotional support via our support line and virtual meetings.
