Today, on the 17th of April – World Haemophilia Day – we reflect on the strides made in raising awareness and advocating for better support for women and girls living with bleeding disorders. This year, we are especially proud to highlight the ongoing work of our three-year project, supported by the Women’s Fund for Scotland grant, which has been instrumental in advancing our mission to empower women and girls affected by bleeding disorders across Scotland.
Year 1: Bringing Women Together
In March last year, we kicked off this project with a conference in Stirling, which brought together women and girls from across Scotland who are affected by a bleeding disorder. This event was a powerful opportunity to connect, share experiences, and build a sense of community. It also provided a platform for discussing the unique challenges faced by women and girls affected by a bleeding disorder, helping to raise awareness and further highlight the need for targeted support.
Year 2: Identifying Gaps in Information and Support
This year, we are focusing on identifying the information and support gaps that exist for women and girls affected by bleeding disorders. In a couple of weeks, we will be sharing a survey for women and girls affected by a bleeding disorder in Scotland to take part in. By understanding where the gaps are, we can better advocate for the policies, resources, and healthcare provisions needed to support women effectively.
Year 3: A Follow-Up Conference
Looking ahead to next year, we will be hosting another conference to bring the community together once again. This event will build on the progress made in the first two years, providing a space for continued dialogue and exploring the next steps in improving support and representation for women and girls affected by a bleeding disorder. The conference will focus on the outcomes of our advocacy work and the tangible steps taken to bridge the gaps identified in Year 2.
We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Women’s Fund for Scotland and for the continued engagement of everyone involved in this important project.
As we celebrate World Haemophilia Day 2025, we remain dedicated to supporting, informing and advocating for our Scottish bleeding disorders community.