About The Genetic Interest Group (GIG)

Why Join?

As the UK alliance for charities, voluntary organisations and support groups for families affected by conditions which have a genetic cause, or in which genes play a significant role, GIG is uniquely able to argue for improvements in services and support for those affected or at risk.

Individually, many genetic conditions are rare and as such it is difficult to raise their profile and the needs of those affected by them.

Membership of GIG provides a common platform from which effective programmes to raise awareness, inform the media and influence government, industry and the NHS can be launched.

For organisations supporting those with more common disorders membership of GIG has advantages too. Collaboration between groups with common interests creates synergy and allows for a better, more effective use of resources. It is not necessary to do everything for yourself all the time and through GIG it is possible to create strategic groupings and have an influence without the need to shoulder a disproportionate share of the work.

Focusing on issues of policy and practice

As an organisation focusing on issues of policy and practice GIG keeps an active watch on developments in the UK and Europe that will influence the effective transfer of knowledge and understanding from the research lab into products and services for families supported by our member groups. Member groups receive regular mailings updating them on a range of issues, providing them with an opportunity to involve themselves in those issues which are central to their work and keep in touch with those which are relevant but not at the heart of their concerns.

GIG is a democratic, consultative organisation. Its trustees are elected by the member organisations. On major issues GIG consults with all its member groups to build a consensus about the direction in which we should go in order to achieve the objectives which will best serve the needs of our members.

In a potentially controversial field like genetics GIG also provides a strong voice advocating the benefits of scientific progress in understanding the contribution being made now and that will be made in the years to come for improving health and combating many currently incurable diseases.

Membership of GIG provides the opportunity to participate in a number of practical initiatives as well, including attending conferences and seminars, receiving publications on a range of issues and joining in with research and service development projects with other groups who share a common concern.

Individuals may also join GIG. They receive all mailings and have the opportunity to participate in conferences, seminars and other activities, but they cannot be elected as Trustees of the organisation (unless nominated by a member group) or vote.