Young people aged 14–18 with lived experience of kidney disease are being invited to take the lead in creating a new project designed to support others affected by the condition.
Swansea-based charity, Popham Kidney Support, is looking for 10 young people aged 14–18 from across Wales with lived experience of kidney disease to join a new youth volunteering programme.
The programme has been made possible through a grant from Global’s Make Some Noise, the official charity of Global, the Media & Entertainment group.
Founded in 2013, Popham Kidney Support delivers a range of services to people affected by kidney disease across Wales, including peer support, counselling, education and awareness programmes, health groups and activity days. In the past 12 months, the charity has supported more than 3,000 people and was recognised with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The programme will enable young people to use their experiences to raise awareness of kidney disease, support their peers and help improve experiences for current and future patients, while developing skills in project planning, event organisation, social media and marketing. With training, workshops, mentoring and guidance from Popham Kidney Support, volunteers will work as a team to take their ideas from development through to delivery.
Kidney disease can affect many parts of a young person’s life, including education, friendships, family life and wellbeing. The challenges of living with the condition are not always visible or understood by those around them, while the needs of younger patients can differ from those of adults.
Joanne Popham, CEO of Popham Kidney Support, said:
“Young people living with kidney disease understand the challenges that come with managing the condition alongside everyday life. We think it is important that the services and support available to them reflect their needs and the realities of their lived experiences.
“This programme gives young people the opportunity to use their own experiences, as well as the views of their peers, to help shape a project that responds to what young people affected by kidney disease actually need.”
The group will meet twice a month, with sessions held in person where possible and online participation available for those unable to attend.
There are 10 places available for young people aged 14–18 with lived experience of kidney disease who live in Wales, with no previous volunteering experience required.
Those interested in taking part can find out more and apply here. Alternatively, contact evie@pophamkidneysupport.org.uk or call 0333 2001 285.
Applications close on 31st October 2026.