Acet UK (Aids Care Education and Training)
Is a Christian charity with ‘a mission to equip and inspire individuals, schools, churches and organisations, in the UK and internationally, to transform culture by promoting healthy self-esteem, positive relationships and good sexual health’.In a letter dated 14/9/2018 Acet UK stated that topics delivered include relationships, sex, pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, HIV and contraception. They do not deliver a lesson on abortion. However, in the UK some of their partners ‘provide information on contraception and reproductive health and signpost to local services’.
Action against allergy
In a letter dated 23/11/2018, this charity stated: ‘In response to your question about human embryo experimentation, our position is negative. We focus on allergy management and we don’t support any research or experimentation beyond the diagnosis and treatment of allergies and allergy-related illness’.
ActionAid
In a letter dated 7/12/2018 Action Aid stated: ‘we feel that as a responsible development agency working in the poorer countries of the world, birth control is one of the areas which should be addressed in our projects.’
‘ActionAid believes that every woman has a right to make safe, informed reproductive health choices. This includes access to safe and legal abortion services. No woman should have to risk her life, her health, her fertility, her well being of the well being of her family because she lacks reproductive health information or care. We believe all women everywhere have the right to manage their own fertility and be fully informed of their options when making decisions about reproductive health. This includes access to safe and legal abortion to terminate an unplanned and unwanted pregnancy.’
Action on Addiction
In a letter dated 31/8/2018 the Chief Executive of Action on Addiction stated: ‘Action on Addiction is not involved in (and to my knowledge never has been involved) human embryo experimentation.
Action on Hearing Loss (Formerly RNID)
In a letter dated 30/8/2018 stated that it does fund ‘a small amount of research using cells from human embryos’.
‘We take very seriously the ethical issues involved and believe it is important that there is continuing open and informed public debate about this area of research. Member of the AMRC.
Action Medical Research
A policy statement on this organisation’s website included the following:
‘Scientists believe that future medical progress will be achieved by undertaking research in all types of human stem cells, including very early embryos. Research involving embryonic stem cells is subject to stringent regulations by various government agencies, to ensure work adheres to the highest standards. Action Medical Research will consider funding stem cell research that involves human embryonic stem cells providing it follows these strict UK regulatory guidelines.’ Member of the AMRC.
https://www.action.org.uk/about-us/policy-statements
Age UK
In a letter dated 7/9/2018 this charity stated that ‘it is not for us to take a view on an issue of conscience like assisted dying and therefore do not carry out or support any work related to this topic’.
Alzheimer’s Research UK
In a letter dated 22/11/2018 stated that it funds projects which ‘focus on using stem cells made from adult skin cells.’ However, they also fund some researchers who ‘may still study stem cells derived from human embryos.’
Alzheimer’s Society
In a letter dated 20/9/2018 this charity stated that it is not calling for a change in the law on assisted dying or euthanasia. It ‘only funds one project that uses embryonic stem cells, and they are only one of a number of types of cells used’. Member ofthe AMRC.
Animal Free Research
In a statement on their website this organisation states:
‘The use of human embryonic stem cells remains an ethically contentious issue due to the potential destruction of the embryo to retrieve the inner cell mass.
In recent years there have been great advances in reverting adult specialised cells back to an undifferentiated state... These cells are known as ‘induced pluripotent stem cells’ or iPSCs and in the future may become as scientifically useful as embryonic stem cells but without the ethical concerns.’
‘Recently we have funded two exciting animal replacement research projects, which feature iPSCs.’
https://www.animalfreeresearchuk.org/stem-cells/
Anthony Nolan
In a letter dated 19/11/2018, this charity wrote: ‘…the research undertaken at Anthony Nolan does not use, or perform, any experimental work on human embryos. We are fortunate to be able to work with stem cells from voluntary unrelated donors and from cord blood stem cells collected from the placenta following birth. Of course, this research is performed only following rigorous review and approval both internally and externally, and with the appropriately signed consent of the donor. Anthony Nolan does not provide funds or grants to other organisations for its research.’
Member of the AMRC ARC Antenatal Results and Choices
Believes ‘that every parent should have access to non-directive information and support through antenatal testing and its consequences’.
This organisation offers support to parents who decide either to continue with a pregnancy or abort because of ‘problems detected’ in their unborn baby. In SPUC’s view there is a bias in favour of parents who chose abortion.
ARC supports the current law on abortion: ‘A reduction in the upper time limit would add an extra level of stress to an already traumatic situation…We owe it to these parents not to make a distressing situation any worse and so ARC will always defend the abortion law as it stands.’
https://www.arc-uk.org/about-arc/mission-and-vision
Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC)
This is an umbrella group with over 140 member charities which are involved in medical research.
All members of the AMRC are required to ‘support the principle of using animals in research’. https://www.amrc.org.uk/Pages/Category/research
The AMRC is less explicit about its support for the use of human embryos in research. However, in a joint statement on genome editing in human cells, the AMRC says: ‘We will continue to support the use of genome editing in preclinical biomedical research as well as studies that progress and refine these technologies. Within the UK, this research may involve the use of somatic (non-reproductive) or germ cells, including human embryos up to 14 days old - within the confines of the HFE Act 2008 - where appropriately justified and supported by rigorous scientific and ethical review.’ (Emphasis added.)
The full statement, which can be seen here https://www.amrc.org.uk/Pages/Category/genome-editing, is signed by: The Academy of Medical Sciences; Cancer Research UK; BBSRC - bioscience for the future; Medical Research Trust; Progress Educational Trust; Wellcome Trust; Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute.
Charities which are members of the AMRC pay an annual membership fee ranging from £375 - £4,495 depending on the charity’s income. https://www.amrc.org.uk/become-a-member Even though the membership fees are small, donations to charities which are members of the AMRC could go towards the membership fee.
Charities which are part of the AMRC are supporting embryo research through their membership, even if, as in many cases, they are not directly funding projects which use human embryos.
Asthma UK
This organisation states on its website: ‘Asthma UK understands and appreciates that people do have concerns about medical research involving human embryos, and charities providing funding support for it. Asthma UK does not currently fund any projects that require human or hybrid human embryos but as a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities, backs their support of the use of human embryos and the creation of hybrid human embryos when the research has the potential to make significant medical advances.’ Member of the AMRC.
https://www.asthma.org.uk/research/strategy/ethics/
In a letter dated 15/1/2019, this charity stated:
‘At Barnardo’s, our primary focus is to support the UK’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged children, young people and families. We deliver this support through over 900 projects and services across the UK. Some of these services provide information and advice on reproductive health, including assisting service users with access to contraception and providing information around pregnancy and abortion if this is sought. This may involve referrals to organisations or services that provide abortions if requested by the service user after consultation with our specialist nurses. We work to empower our service users to make their own decisions around reproductive health.’
This charity is fully supportive of compulsory Relationships and Sex Education in schools. https://www.barnardos.org.uk/news/Sex-and-relationships-education-will-be-compulsory-in-England-Government-announces-/press_releases.htm?ref=122116
Advice on teaching this new statutory subject includes:
‘Teach a wide-ranging RSE curriculum to all young people. Don’t assume that topics (such as abuse, grooming, LGBT relationships and gender identities, consent, and pregnancy) don’t need to be discussed if they are not known to be relevant to anyone in the class at that time.’ https://www.barnardos.org.uk/involve_us_respect_us_web.pdf
Barnardos supports sexual health clinics in locations around the country including: https://www.barnardos.org.uk/west_and_central_sexual_health.pdf https://www.barnardos.org.uk/health_and_wellbeing_pdf-3.pdf
BBC Children in Need
BBC Children in Need is an umbrella organisation, whose function is to give grants to a large number of smaller charities across the country. According to the BBC website, in 2018 Children in Need supported over 2,700 projects in communities across the UK. The list of projects is broken down by region. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/psvxkB6QDMK63pgHmP5RJF/who-you-help
Many local charities will not be involved in anti-life practices, but some may be doing so.
BIG C - Norfolk’s Cancer Charity
In a letter dated 19/12/2019, the Chief Executive of this charity stated: ‘I can categorically confirm that we would not offer grants or support researchers who use human embryo experimentation and please take this letter as a statement of fact.’
Bloodwise the blood cancer research charity
This charity stated in a letter dated 22/11/2018 that it ‘has not funded research involving experiments on human embryos’. Bloodwise keeps its research ‘under regular review including developing new policies when a need arises’. The Head of Research Funding stated: ‘We work with several research funding organisations and to my knowledge, they do not fund this type of research’. Member of the AMRC.
Bone Cancer Research Trust
In a letter dated 28/11/2018 this charity stated: ‘We do not have a written policy regarding human embryo experimentation as we have never funded any research that involves human embryos and are very unlikely to, as research of the nature is tightly governed and not directly relevant to our field.’ Member of the AMRC.
Bowel Cancer UK
In a letter dated 5/12/2018, this charity stated, ‘human embryos are not commonly used in research for the benefit of people with bowel cancer. Were we to receive requests for funding in this area, this would have to be considered carefully by our Trustees and Medical Advisors.’ Member of the AMRC.
Brain Research UK
In a letter dated 9/1/2019, this charity stated: ‘We don’t have a specific policy on human embryo experimentation. However, we have no record of ever having funded any research using human embryos, and we think that they likelihood of funding any such research in the future is slim.
‘To date we have not received any applications for research involving human embryos; as and when we do, this will likely set a precedent for how we deal with such applications in the future.
‘It’s worth pointing out that, whilst some areas of neurological research do use stem cells, these stem cells are often now derived from skin cells rather than from embryos.’ Member of the AMRC.
Breast Cancer Now
In a letter dated 25/10/2018 stated that it does not ‘currently fund any projects that require the use of human embryos or human embryonic stem cells’.
‘Overall, having been funding ground-breaking research into breast cancer for over 25 years … we haven’t received any research application proposing the use of human embryos or human embryonic stem cells, and we don’t expect this to change.’ Member of the AMRC.
British Council for the Prevention of Blindness
In a letter dated 4/12/2018, the organisation stated: ‘We only fund research into blindness prevention, and I can confirm that we do not fund any research using human embryos and we do not support organisations who use human embryos’. Member of the AMRC.
British Deaf Association
This is a ‘community-based organisation providing frontline services to Deaf communities’. In a letter dated 17/10/2018 this charity’s fundraiser: ‘I can confirm that the British Deaf Association (BDA) does not undertake nor funds any form of medical research, and more specifically, any form of experimentation or research involving human embryos’.
British Liver Trust
This charity stated in a letter dated 28/11/2018 the Fundraising Manager stated: ‘I can confirm that we are not currently funding, not do we have any plans to fund, any research that involves human embryos’.
British Lung Foundation
In a letter dated 29/11/2018 this charity stated: ‘To date we have not funded research that involves the use of embryos and we do not receive research funding application that involve their use. In addition, we are not currently planning to fund work in this area. At present we don’t have a specific policy on the use of human embryos in research.’ Member of the AMRC.
British Red Cross
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (the Federation), of which British Red Cross is a part, promotes ‘reproductive health care as a basic human right for every woman’ in disasters.
As part of their Minimum Initial Service Package of Care, the Federation guarantees ‘the availability of free condoms to reduce HIV transmission’ as well as ‘planning for the provision of comprehensive reproductive health services, integrated into primary health care as the situations permit.’
The Federation works with the Population Fund on issues of reproductive health in emergency situations. Information given in a letter dated 22/10/2018.
Brook -Sexual health & wellbeing for under 25s
Brook supports women’s right to choose legal and safe abortion and believes abortion should be available to women in all parts of the United Kingdom.’
https://www.brook.org.uk/about-brook/brook-position-statement-abortion ‘Brook values every young person’s right to make informed choices about contraception. Young women should have the right to choose from the whole range of methods of contraception so that they can select the method which best suits their lifestyles and which they are happy to use.’ https://www.brook.org.uk/about-brook/brook-position-statement-contraception-and-choice
‘We support an holistic, rights based approach to sex, sexuality and sexual health and believe that we should be talking openly and confidently with children and young people about relationships, emotions, love, trust, sexuality and sex, including sexual pleasure.’
Calcutta Rescue Fund
Runs a Mother and Child Health programme which counsels all post-natal women about contraception. In a letter dated 2/11/2018 this charity stated that it promotes ‘the advantages of limiting family size’ and provides oral contraceptives and condoms. In addition, ‘Women who request termination of an unwanted pregnancy are directed towards an appropriate agency and supported in their decision’.
Cancer Focus Northern Ireland
In a letter dated 28/11/2018 this charity stated: ‘Cancer Focus Northern Ireland does not hold a specific position on human embryos experimentation. We do not carry out laboratory based research ourselves, although we do carry out social research projects. We fund academic social science and laboratory based research, however, none of our projects are involved in human embryo experimentation’.
Cancer Research UK
In a letter dated 16/11/2018 stated: ‘Of the thousands of research projects we currently fund, only one involves human embryos … The embryos used in this research are left over from patients’ fertility treatment and donated by patients’. This project is being undertaken by Kathy Niakan at the Francis Crick Institute. www.crick.ac.uk/research/labs/kathy-niakan
In 2016, the Francis Crick Institute received approval from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) to use new genome editing techniques on human embryos. The Francis Crick Institute website lists a range of research projects which make use of human embryos during the first seven days of life.
Cancer Research UK features prominently on the Francis Crick Institute website as one of six organisations with whom they are in ‘a unique partnership.’ Member of the AMRC.
Cardiomyopathy UK - the heart muscle charity
In a letter dated 26/11/2018, this charity stated, ‘… Cardiomyopathy UK does not research directly or indirectly or collaborate with any third party organisation or individual supporting either assisted dying or human embryo experimentation.’
One research project featured on their website is: ‘Two stem cell treatments for heart failure show glimpses of benefit’ 7/September 2016. https://www.cardiomyopathy.org/news--media/latest-news/post/266-two-stem-cell-treatments-for-heart-failure-show-glimpses-of-benefit
Stem cells for this research came from CardioCell: ‘For clinical trials, CardioCell is using cGMP allogeneic stem cells derived from the bone marrow of healthy volunteers. These cells are manufactured in a licensed cGMP-compliant facility.’ http://stemcardiocell.com/
Caring Cancer Trust
Confirmed in a letter dated 25/11/2018, that it does not ‘fund cancer research that involves the use of live animals or human embryos. Our funding is in fact conditional on receipt of certification to that effect from our funding beneficiaries. We do not support any organisation or charity that either funds or does such research, which we consider to be both unethical and immoral’.
CARE International UK
In a letter dated 18/12/2018, this charity enclosed a paper: ‘CARE 2020 Program Strategy: Sexual, Reproductive and Maternal Health and Rights’ which stated: ‘Supporting sexual, reproductive rights is fundamental to CARE’s mission.’
The following statements are taken from the Care International UK website:
‘CARE supports girls’ and women’s right to safe childbirth, reproductive self-determination and bodily integrity.’
‘We ensure women’s reproductive health needs are met both in emergencies and through long-term community-based work.’
‘CARE is a founding member of the Reproductive Health in Emergencies Consortium, and in 2012 we adopted sexual and reproductive health as one of four focal areas for our humanitarian response, along with food, shelter and water. We are committed to providing the Minimal Initial Service Package for Reproductive Health as part of our emergency responses …’
https://www.careinternational.org.uk/fighting-poverty/improving-health/sexual-and-reproductive-health
Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland
In a letter dated 17/12/2018, this charity stated: ’Currently CHSS do not have a specific human embryo experimentation policy, and we do not specifically exclude human embryo experimentation from the research we fund; so in theory, a project involving human embryo experimentation could be funded by CHSS through its research grants. However, after looking at the last 20 years of projects we cannot find that we have funded any.
‘… CHSS funds research projects at a number of universities in Scotland. We understand that some of these universities do, on projects funded by other organisations, carry out research involving human embryo experimentation.’ Member of the AMRC.
ChildLine
ChildLine ‘is a counselling service for children and young people up to their 19th birthday in the United Kingdom provided by the NSPCC’.
The website directs young people to organisations which provide contraception and abortion to young people including under the age of consent and without parental knowledge or consent.
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/friends-relationships-sex/sex-relationships/abortion/
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/friends-relationships-sex/sex-relationships/contraception-safe-sex/
An indication of the approach taken by ChildLine is given in their messaging on masturbation: ‘Both girls and boys masturbate and it’s completely natural.’
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/friends-relationships-sex/sex-relationships/sex/
Information about pornography includes;
‘Some young people watch porn or are curious about it. It’s normal to want to know more, and it could make you feel anything from aroused to disgusted.’
‘Watching porn can leave you with mixed feelings because it's not something people usually talk about openly. You might feel:
excited or aroused by what you’ve seen
interested in watching different types of porn …’
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/bullying-abuse-safety/online-mobile-safety/online-porn/
Children Change Columbia
This charity stated in a letter dated 17/10/2018 that it ‘will support organisations that provide education on sexual and reproductive health and rights, including information on contraception and birth control resources to children and young people’. This organisation’s partners all ‘provide information on sexual and reproductive rights and health issues’. And some of their partners ‘refer service users to family planning clinics or health centres for advice’.
Christian Aid
The following statements are taken from a five- page policy statement titled: ‘Christian Aid’s Policy on Family Planning’, published June 2015:
‘Reproductive health is vitally important in any discussion of global poverty and population levels.’
‘We believe that increasing access to modern methods of contraception is necessary, but not in itself sufficient, for individuals (and women in particular) to have power over their reproductive lives. For that, we believe, there must also be work done to stimulate demand.’
‘Christian Aid does not fund abortion clinics and does not regard abortion as a desirable form of birth control.’
‘In common with other ecumenical development and aid agencies, Christian Aid funds organisations that provide support to poor women in crisis to inform them of their legal rights, both in terms of advice on legal abortions as well as the risks of illegal abortions.’
https://www.christianaid.org.uk/sites/default/files/2016-03/christian-aid-policy-on-family-planning-jun-2015.pdf
Coeliac UK
In a letter dated 27/11/2018 this organisation stated: ‘We have not funded any research in the past involving the use of human embryos and currently cannot foresee any reason why we would in the future. The nature of coeliac disease is such that invariably research involves the study of patients and human populations.’ Member of the AMRC.
Comic Relief
Comic Relief is a fund-raising company which transfers all its profits to the registered charity called Charity Projects. Comic Relief organises Red Nose Day in 'odd' years (2015, 2017, 2019 etc.) and Sport Relief in 'even' years (2014, 2016, 2018 etc.). While the two fundraising events may seem different, they are for all practical intents and purposes the same as they both exist to raise money for Comic Relief.
The money raised in Comic Relief’s fundraising campaigns is paid out in grants to thousands of exterior charities. While not all of these charities will engage in activities which would concern the pro-life community, other charities will be associated with anti-life practices.
Red Nose Day is the BBC's biannual fundraising extravaganza for Comic Relief. The BBC also hosts Children in Need. Comic Relief gives grants to national and international charities, whereas Children in Need deals with smaller national charities.
Concern worldwide
In a letter received in January 2019, this charity stated: ‘In many of the countries Concern works in, we partner with other NGOs and Ministries of Health to offer information, knowledge and skills so that people can make informed choices regarding their family planning options (often termed ‘child spacing’) to allow more time between pregnancies to protect a mother’s health, and any existing and future pregnancies and children.’
‘Family planning is integral to the Ethiopian Government’s current 5 year plan, and Concern is supporting this work also.’
DEBRA
Funds research and supports people living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a group of genetic skin conditions which cause the skin to blister and tear at the slightest touch.
In a letter dated 6/12/2018, DEBRA stated: "Currently we do not fund any research involving embryos." Member of the AMRC.
Dementia UK
In a letter dated 4/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘It is accepted that individuals within any organisation will hold various and personal views on all matters, including assisted dying, however, as an organisation, Dementia UK do not support it and neither to we have a policy on it.’
Diabetes UK
In a statement on their website dated October 2011, this charity said:
‘Diabetes UK has committed to support stem cell research both publicly and financially through our research grant programme. This position is also in line with that of the Association of Medical Research Charities, of which Diabetes UK is a member. In our 2009 survey of Diabetes UK members, an overwhelming majority supported the use of adult stem cells in diabetes research, around two thirds supported the use of human embryos, and a majority supported the use of human-hybrid embryos.’
‘Diabetes UK acknowledges that there are important ethical considerations surrounding the use of stem cells in research, and will continue to monitor developments in stem cell research to ensure our investment in research holds the maximum potential to improve the lives of people living with diabetes.’
‘A few studies involving stem cells have entered early stage clinical trials. However, these techniques are still experimental and, even if they prove successful, are many years away from widespread use on the NHS as treatments for diabetes.’ Member of the AMRC.
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/research/our-approach-to-research/research-position-statements/stem_cell_research_and_diabetes
Down’s Syndrome Association
In a letter date 16/12/2018, this charity stated it ‘would not want to see a world without people with Down’s syndrome’.
The letter lists the ways in which it is working with agencies involved in ‘antenatal screening pathways across England and Wales’. One point this charity highlights is that:
‘Professionals need to develop their skills in providing non-directive counselling - to enable women to make personalised, informed decisions about what is right for them.’
The letter also stated that the Down’s Syndrome Association is ‘not active in the areas of i) human embryo research ii) assisted dying or iii) the provision of contraceptive services to women or girls.
A statement on this charity’s website reads:
‘At the Down’s Syndrome Association, we do not believe Down’s syndrome in itself should be a reason for termination, however, we realise that families must make their own choice.’
https://www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/news/statement-in-response-to-richard-dawkins-comments-on-twitter/?highlight=termination
EMBRACE the Middle East
In a letter dated 19/12/2019, this charity stated: ‘Embrace currently supports maternal care projects with three partners. Our funding focuses on maternal care and safe delivery, as this is the support our partners have requested. These projects do not have a specific focus on family planning. Terminations are generally illegal in the Middle east or very heavily regulated and this is not a service which our partners are equipped or legally mandated to perform.
‘However they would, where appropriate, refer cases on to the appropriate clinics, for instance in high risk pregnancies.’
Here are two extracts from the EMBRACE website:
‘Health knowledge is health power! our Christian partners train community volunteers to run free health information classes. Topics include food hygiene, nutrition, family planning, infectious disease prevention and child health.’
https://www.embraceme.org/alternative-gifts/keep-healthy
‘Think & Do’ is a project run by Embrace which provides ‘literacy classes, run by local women, for women and girls in their communities who have missed out on their education. Classes and seminars are available on a wide variety of subjects, including childhood nutrition, prevention and treatment of common diseases, family planning, female genital mutilation (FGM), food hygiene and other practical topics relevant to everyday life.’
https://www.embraceme.org/partner/think-do
Epilepsy Action
In a statement on their website this charity states: ‘Epilepsy Action supports all research into epilepsy, and actively funds and carries out non-laboratory research. Epilepsy Action is committed to supporting people with epilepsy and others with a personal connection to have a voice in epilepsy research in the UK.’ Member of the AMRC.
https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/research
fpa
the sexual health charity
This charity believes: ‘Sexual rights are human rights. Everyone should have the ability and responsibility to control their own sexual health’ https://www.fpa.org.uk/sexual-and-reproductive-rights
‘FPA is a pro-choice organisation. We support the right of women to choose whether or not to continue with a pregnancy.
‘Abortion is an essential part of women’s reproductive health. It should not be considered or implied to be a criminal act. We call for abortion to be removed from criminal law in all parts of the UK. Abortion is, and should continue to be, regulated as a healthcare procedure, with the final decision resting with the woman.’ https://www.fpa.org.uk/sites/default/files/abortion-policy-statement.pdf
Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity
In a letter dated 13/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘… one of the main reasons for embryo research in addition to fertility, is because embryos are a source of stem cells. Stem cells have unique properties and have the ability to turn into almost any cell in the body. This means they have enormous potential to advance medicine. However, embryos are not the only source of stem cells.
‘Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity supports the use of stem cells in research as long as the research meets legal and ethical requirements…’
‘… we are also increasingly focusing on areas which are using new techniques to generate stem cells. This includes using adult stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPCSs) - a type of stem cell that can be generated in the lab from cells such as those at the root of the hair or skin cells.’
Extracts from this charity’s ‘Position statement on the use of stem cells in research’, enclosed with the letter:
‘We recognise that there are important ethical issues concerning the use of human embryonic stem cells and that some supporters of the charity will hold moral objection to the use of human embryonic stem cells in research. The wishes of these donors will be fully respected in relation to any donations they make.
‘Most embryos used in UK stem cell research are embryos initially created for us in fertility treatment, but not used. These IVF embryos, if donated with the full consent of the parents, can be used for research. Licensed research can take place on embryo up to 14 days. Stem cells are isolated from the blastocyst much sooner than this - at 5-6 days.’ Member of the AMRC.
Guts UK
In a letter dated 7/12/2018, this organisation stated: "Guts UK funds laboratory-based, transitional and clinical research and some of the projects we support could use embryonic tissue, more likely stem cells derived from embryos. As an organisation we do not have a policy that precludes the use of embryonic tissue provided that the researcher and the institution adhere to all relevant regulation and legislation".
The letter included comments from a researcher funded by Guts UK:
"…future studies on developing embryonic tissue will be critical to improve our understanding of how the gut develops and it’s clear that animal models are not 100% comparable.
"Other research groups that we collaborate with do indeed use human embryonic stem cells, stable cell lines, so they are not isolated from embryos on an on-going basis." Member of the AMRC.
Heart Research UK
In a letter dated 13/12/2018, the Head of Research of this charity stated: ‘To my knowledge, Heart Research UK has not funded any research involving human embryos. However, the Charity does not have a policy that prohibits the use of human embryos in research.’ Member of the AMRC.
Herpes Virus Association
This organisation gives advice and information to people who have herpes simplex.
In a letter dated 7/13/2018 this organisation stated that is does not have ‘an official statement about human experimentation as we are unaware that any such research takes place in the context of herpes simplex.
This charity links to Brook and the fpa among other organisations. https://herpes.org.uk/useful-links/
IMPACT Foundation
This charity works to improve health and prevent disability in developing countries. In a letter dated 6/12/2018, this organisation stated: "The whole thrust of IMPACT’s work is on the prevention and alleviation of causes of needless disability through, for example, straight-forward treatment and surgery, better nutrition and primary healthcare."
"We feel that sustained change can only be brought about by empowering women with information and to that end, family planning advice may be provided as one part of maternity care. This is done in line with Government policy in each country and taking into account cultural or religious sensitivities."
IRT - International Refugee Trust
This charity supports project in places such as South Sudan, Jordan and Uganda, which are run locally by nuns. IRT receives support from ‘a large number of Catholic parishes, particularly from their associated Justice and Peace Groups and Developing Word Groups’.
On a letter dated 18/12/2018, this charity stated that none of its projects is ‘involved in birth control’.
The letter also stated: ‘However, the question has been raised as to whether the ‘Rainbow’ HIV/AIDS project in Nzara recommends condoms to prevent transmission.’
The letter included a response from the nun who oversees the project in Nzara, which included the statement: ‘It is true the use of condoms in not allowed by the catholic church (sic) but in some cases where the couple are both positive after consultation with the church personnel (parish Priest) (sic) may allow them to use it.’
Jo’s cervical cancer trust
The missions statement of this organisation is: ‘To see cervical cancer prevented and reduce the impact for everyone affected by cervical abnormalities and cervical cancer through providing the highest quality information and support, and campaigning for excellence in cervical cancer treatment and prevention.’
Jo’s cervical cancer trust organisation states: ‘HPV is most common in young, sexually active people, usually between the ages of 16 and 25’, and endorses the NHS HPV vaccination programme; girls 11-13 in Scotland and girls 12-13 in the rest of the UK.
https://www.jostrust.org.uk/faq/hpv-vaccine
SPUC is concerned about the ethics of offering every school girl in the UK, under the legal age for sexual consent, a vaccination against a disease which can virtually only be contracted through sexual contact.
This organisation links to Brook and the fpa (Family Planning Service) which offer contraception and abortion advice to young people under the age of sexual consent without parental knowledge.
https://www.jostrust.org.uk/links/sexual-health
Leukaemia Care
In a letter date 12/12/2018 this charity stated: ‘Leukaemia Care does not currently engage in medical research, or commission medical research on our behalf. We are a cancer support charity providing information, advice and advocacy on behalf of anyone affected by a diagnosis of blood cancer.’
Lupus UK
Lupus is an incurable immune system illness, probably genetic in origin and mainly suffered by females. It can affect any part of the body. In a letter dated 7/12/2018 the CEO of Lupus wrote that the question of human embryo experimentation ‘has never arisen, certainly in the 18 years I have been with LUPUS UK. To the best of my knowledge LUPUS UK has never funded this type of research and as such has no policy in the regard. What I cannot say is whether the organisations we support do this type of research that tends to be Universities linked with large hospitals.’
Macmillan Cancer Support
In a letter dated 7/12/2018, this organisation stated: "…here at Macmillan we don’t actually do any research into cancer, nor do we have any policies on assisted death or support any organizations that do. We are here to support people living with cancer find the best way through and live life as fully as they can." Member of the AMRC
Macular Society - Support throughout central vision loss
A letter dated 4/1/2019 enclosed this charity’s ‘Stem Cell statement’, which states: ‘The Macular Society believes that stem cell research has the potential to bring great benefit to people with macular conditions. It therefore supports the use of all types of stem cells including embryonic, adult and induced pluripotent stem cells.’ Member of the AMRC.
Marie Curie - Care and support through terminal illness
In a letter dated 17/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘As an organisation providing care, we are not seeking a change in the law to permit euthanasia or physician assisted suicide. As such, any money raised through donations would not go towards campaigns to promote assisted dying.’
A statement on the Marie Curie website includes the following on Advance Decisions to Refuse Treatment:
‘As part of our commitment to good end of life care we support the existing right of a competent patient to refuse consent to any medical treatment and recommend that patients participate in plans for their future care, including Advance Decisions to Refuse Treatment, or their equivalent.’
SPUC promotes an ethical position in which the first duty of doctors is to give medical treatment in the best interests of the patient, not to follow directives which could lead to premature death of the patient. SPUC is also concerned that vulnerable people could be pressured to make Advance Decisions to Refuse Treatment.
The Marie Curie website also includes the following statement on human embryo research:
‘The charity does not carry out or fund any experiments whatsoever on human embryos or human embryonic stem cells. Marie Curie has no plans to do so in the future.’ Member of the AMRC.
Meningitis Now
A letter dated 10/12/2018, this charity stated: "We do not fund any research which involves human embryo experimentation, nor do we support research using human embryos.’ Member of the AMRC.
Meningitis Research Foundation
In a letter dated 18/12/2018, the Director of Research, Evidence and Policy of this charity stated: ‘We do not currently fund any research which involves human embryo experimentation, and have not done so in the past. We can assure our supporters that their donations will not be used to support research using human embryos.’ Member of the AMRC.
Mental Health Foundation
In a letter dated 19/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘We can clarify that we do not have a policy on reproductive health services, human embryo experimentation, or assisted dying, as this is not part of our work. We do not do any work in connection with termination of pregnancy and contraceptive services for women and girls, or any research on abortion and mental health.’
Motor Neurone Disease Association
In a letter dated 11/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘The Association does not carry out its own research. Of all the institutions we find, only two are using embryonic stem cells and these are from an established line - this means they have not been sourced specifically for this research.’
‘We take a position of neutrality towards any change in the law on assisted dying. We always work within the law and do not provide encouragement or assistance to people wishing to pursue assisted dying.’ https://www.mndassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/mnd-association-policy-statement-on-assisted-dying.pdf
MS Society
In a letter dated 11/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘Sometimes, it is necessary to conduct research using human embryos and human embryonic stem cells as long as it fits with our research priorities and has passed our internal review process.’ Member of the AMRC.
Multiple Sclerosis Trust
In a letter dated 10/12/2018 this charity stated: ‘The MS Trust does not fund research into cause and cure. We do not, therefore, fund any research that would use human embryos.’
Muscular Dystrophy UK
In a letter dated 18/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘We recognise that using human embryos is an area that some people have concerns about. We are currently in the process of reviewing our formal policy and it will also be shared on our website.’
‘We co-fund research with a number of different organisations, including the Medical Research Council (MRC), National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) and other charities. Some of these organisation have their own policies on supporting the use of research using human embryonic stem cells. … However, at this time we are not currently funding research of this nature, either on our own or in collaboration with other organisations.’ Member of the AMRC.
Narcolepsy
In a letter dated 12/12/2018, this ‘very small charity’ stated that is has ‘very little money’, and ‘certainly nothing we could utilise’ to fund research involving human embryos.
National Children’s Bureau
This is an umbrella group. NCB was ‘at the forefront of the campaign that brought about the introduction of compulsory Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) in all secondary schools, and Relationships Education in all primary schools.’ https://www.ncb.org.uk/sites/default/files/uploads/NCB_ar_2017_07_web.pdf
These compulsory school subjects undermine parents, sexualise children and young people and promote the LGBT agenda.
Organisations which funded and supported NBC in 2016 -2017:
Atlantic Philanthropies, Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, Big Lottery Fund, Department for Education, Department for Education NI, Department of Health Education, Endowment Foundation, Essex Community Foundation, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation & The Sutton Trust Parental Engagement Fund, Foyle Foundation, Government Equalities Office, Health Education England, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, JP Getty Jnr Charitable, Trust NHS Lambeth, CCG Lankelly Chase Foundation, London Borough of Lambeth, NHS England, The Prince’s Trust, SafeToNet Souter Charitable Trust, True Colours Trust, UBS Optimus Foundation, University of Roehampton, Young Minds
National Deaf Children’s Society
‘It is not our role to express an opinion on the way society decides to make use of preimplantation genetic diagnosis.
‘We support all families and deaf children/young people regardless of any choices they make around medical interventions and deafness. It is for families to own their experiences of deafness and no family or deaf child should be made to feel anything less than positive about the choices they make around deafness.
‘We support the development of genetic diagnosis and services. The NHS should ensure that these developments are widely available and accessible to deaf children, young people and their families.
‘Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis involves IVF techniques to produce embryos, but with the additional step a few cells are removed from each embryo and tested to see whether or not that embryo has inherited a particular gene or not. This allows selection of which embryos will be placed in the uterus. It is available for couples who have a chance of passing on a specific genetic condition.
‘We acknowledge that some families with a history of deafness may wish to use this type of technology in planning their family.’
http://www.ndcs.org.uk/applications/site_search/search.rm?term=medical+advancements&searchreferer_id=2&submit.x=7&submit.y=10
National Kidney Federation (NFK)
In a letter dated 30/11/2018 NFK stated: ‘The NKF does not hold written policies on either Human Embryo Experimentation nor on Assisted Dying. This is primarily because NKF exists primarily to support kidney patients, to advocate for better treatments for them and to encourage organ transplantation.’
‘The NKF is pleased to hear the commitment today (4.10.2017) of the Prime Minister to introduce a system of "Presumed Consent" in England.’ https://www.kidney.org.uk/home/all-news-2/opt-out-organ-donation-system-to-be-introduced-in-england-/
Comment on SPUC’s position on presumed consent needed.
National Osteoporosis Society
In a letter dated 12/12/2018 this organisation stated; ‘I can confirm that we do not fund research involving human embryo experimentation.
‘Looking to the future we are setting out on a programme of work to find a cure for osteoporosis… At present this would not entail research using human embryos, but if research was needed to get to the fundamental cause of osteoporosis then we would need to consider very carefully all the methods of how we can advance our understanding of the mechanisms of the disease.’ Member of the AMRC.
NSPCC
This charity provides the ChildLine service. SPUC Safe at School also has serious reservations about the Speak Out Stay Safe programme delivered in schools by this charity. For more information (insert link).
Nerve Tumours UK
In a letter dated 10/12/2018 this charity stated: ‘Given that it does not form part of our charitable purpose, Nerve Tumours UK does not have an explicit policy on research using human embryos. However, we can confirm that the charity does not fund or support organisations, which undertake research using human embryos.
‘We have noted your letter, and the Board of trustees will consider whether or not this unofficial position should be made into policy.’
Ovarian Cancer Action
In a letter dated 12/12/2018, this organisation stated: ‘We have never and have no intention of funding any research that experiments on human embryos. We also do not support any organisations that carry out research of this kind.’ Member of the AMRC.
Oxfam
The following commitment to reproductive health appears in the ‘Oxfam Strategic Plan 2013-2019’ page 19:
‘Increased access to free and public quality healthcare and education (including affordable medicines and sexual and reproductive health services) for the world’s poorest and marginalised people, with no barriers for women and girls, by changing policy and practice of governments, institutions and corporations, and by citizens and civil society advocating for comprehensive, publicly financed national health and education plans.
‘Support campaigns for health (including sexual and reproductive health) and education and support organizations that work with governments on innovative ways to reach women and girls.’
https://www.oxfam.org.uk/what-we-do/about-us/plans-reports-and-policies
At the time of writing there were 145 items on the Oxfam website relating to reproductive health. https://www.oxfam.org.uk/search-results?q=reproductive%20health;show_all=ogb_mixed
Pelican Cancer Foundation
In a letter dated 11/12/2018 this organisation stated: ‘The Pelican Cancer Foundation does not have a ‘position’ on embryo research, we do not support any research that used embryos or likely to do so.’ Member of the AMRC.
Plan International
This organisation is ‘relentless in driving change to advance children’s rights and equality for girls’ and is committed to children’s sexual rights. Plan International's policy sexual and reproductive rights includes the following:
Plan International recognises reproductive rights to include the right of girls and women to make autonomous decisions about their health. Denying girls and women access to safe abortion services prevents them from exercising this right. Plan International does not provide medical health services.’
‘Plan International acknowledges that unsafe abortion is a preventable cause of death and ill health of girls and women across the world and often a consequence of violations of girls’ and women’s fundamental human rights. The right to health and gender equality are advanced by access to safe and legal abortion.’ https://plan-international.org/publications/sexual-reproductive-health-rights (See page 4)
Pkd
charity Polycystic Kidney Disease
In a letter dated 6/1/2019, this charity stated: ‘Our charity does not conduct research using human embryos. Our funds are awarded to researchers who do sometimes use human tissue, such as kidney cells, to conduct studies in PJD, but none of them uses embryos.
Prostate Cancer UK
In a letter dated 7/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘To realise the full potential of stem cells for improving health, Prostate Cancer UK believes that scientists must be able to continue research in all avenues of stem cell research, including adult, human embryonic and induced pluripotent stems in basic and clinical science. We are not currently funding research using human embryonic stem cells, but we may do so in future if we were to receive a suitable research grant application.
‘In common with all significant medical charities, Prostate Cancer UK is a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities and support their position on stem cell research.’ Member of the AMRC.
Safer Medicines Trust
In a letter dated 30/12/2018, this organisation stated: ‘We are very much in favour of research using induced pluripotent stem cells, which are reprogrammed cells (from skin, for example) that are not derived from embryos and therefore avoid the controversy associated with embryonic stem cells.’
Save the Children
In a letter dated 9/1/2019, this charity stated: ‘Save the Children UK believes that effective reproductive and sexual health services are vital for the survival, health and wellbeing of every woman, adolescent and child. Contraception and safe abortion services should be part of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, as recommended by the World Health Organisation and the Lancet Commission of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.
‘Save the Children is rarely involved in the delivery of clinical services, except in humanitarian situations. Our work is more often supporting communities to access health care and to governments to improve the quality of their service. This would include contraception provision. However as Save the Children International is a recipient of the US Government funding for health, the Board, of Save the Children International has reluctantly decided that our country programmes run by Save the Children International will comply with the reinstatement and expansion of the U.S. government’s Protecting Lives in Global Health Assistance policy. This prohibits Save the Children International staff from supporting or promoting abortion except in cases of rape, incest and threat to the life of the woman.
‘This compliance does not apply to Save the Children UK and we continue to believe that women’s full sexual and reproductive health and rights as essential.’
Scoliosis Association UK
In a letter dated 17/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘SAUK is purely a support group for people (and the families of people) with scoliosis and does not fund research.’
Sense
This charity works with people with complex disabilities and those who are deafblind.
In a letter dated 18/12/2018, this charity stated:
‘I can confirm that any funding Sense receives does not go towards any reproductive health services, not do we support or refer to any organisations who do this work.
‘We also do not undertake any work in connection with termination of pregnancy or contraceptive services for women and girls.
‘We also have no involvement in any medical research using human embryos, nor do we financially support other organisations that undertake this research.
‘Finally we have no involvement with assisted dying and do not run any campaigns to promote assisted dying nor support other organisation who do this.’
Sexpression:UK
‘Sexpression:UK is a student-led independent charity that empowers young people to make decisions about sex and relationships by running informal and comprehensive SRE in the community.’
This organisation promotes explicit sex education in schools, contraception for young people and support for intersex, non-binary gender and transgender young people among other issues which run contrary to human dignity. This organisation is sponsored by the condom manufacturers, Durex. http://sexpression.org.uk/
Hydrcephalus Scotland
In a letter dated 20/12/2018 this charity stated: ‘We do not support any research into human embryo experimentation or support any external organisations in this field. Where parents meet the correct criteria we do support the recent developments in In Utero Surgery.’
Spinal Injuries Association
In a letter dated 18/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘We do not carry out any sort of research, regardless of involvement with human embryos. This is not an area of work which forms part of our aims or strategy. There are, however, other organisations who do special in this area of research and, naturally, we do welcome any progress that is made in that field.’
Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK
In a letter dated 18/12/2018, the Managing Director of this charity stated: ‘… regarding our position on human embryo experimentation. To date we have not funded any work on treatments for SMA relating to this field of scientific research…If a project of this type was tabled ultimately even if the scientific board supported it, the Trustees board of my charity would be given final vote by me as I am clear that this is a very new and ultimately ethically difficult area for the charity to enter into.
‘So what I am saying is no we haven’t funded this line of work and no we don’t know of any projects working on SMA in this field and hence are not knowingly supporting other organisations in this type of research.’
Spinal Research
In a letter dated 19/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘Spinal research is a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities… We follow their guidance and best practice as part of our membership and adhere to their policies on medical research.
vince‘Cell lines such as those derived from embryos, are subject to strict regulation under European and UK law. Their use under appropriate regulatory and ethical control has the potential to bring about significant medical advances, particularly in tissue repair. Given this potential, Spinal Research would consider funding projects that required the inclusion of the cells in research that had undergone robust scientific and ethical review. We recognise that this is an issue that stimulates strong views.
‘At the time of writing Spinal Research doesn’t fund projects that involve human embryonic cells.’
Sue Ryder
In a letter dated 20/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘Sue Ryder recognises that Assisted Dying is a complex subject and we are sensitive to both sides of the debate. However, our position on these matters is always guided by the law, which currently states that Assisted Dying is not legal in the United Kingdom.’
Target Ovarian Cancer
In a letter received in December 2018, the Director of Communications at this charity stated: ‘I can clarify that Target Ovarian Cancer does not fund research that uses human embryos. We fund gold-standard research at universities across the UK - the universities may participate in unrelated research that use human embryos, but the research projects we fund do not.’ Member of the AMRC.
Tearfund
In a letter dated 18/12/2018 this charity stated: ‘At Tearfund, we believe that limiting family size is not a frustration of the purpose of God as some have suggested, but is responsible stewardship of our resources. The responsible use of family planning within marriage is therefore an important aid to being able to make effective decisions about the future of our families so they can flourish instead of struggle. We recognise that some will prefer "natural" methods while others will use modern contraceptives.’
Tenovus Cancer Care
In a letter dated 20/12/2018 the Head of Research at this charity stated: ‘…to the very best of my knowledge, we do not currently fund any research using human embryos nor do we directly support other organisations that do.’ Member of the AMRC.
The Brain Tumour Charity
In a letter dated 21/12/2018, the Chief Scientific Officer of this charity stated: ‘I can confirm that we do not support any such research within our current portfolio …I find it difficult to identify any aspect of the work that we support where human embryo experimentation would add benefits over alternative approaches.’ Member of the AMRC.
The Eve Appeal
Funds research into five gynaecological cancers. In a letter dated 5/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘We do not fund any research using human embryos and neither do our research teams.’
However, this charity endorses compulsory sex education in schools to raise awareness of gynaecological cancers. At the time of writing, this charity features a blog on its website written by an ‘18 year old campaigner for better relationships and sex education and the founder of ISupportSexEducation.com.’ The writer is ‘ a member of the Family Planning Association Youth Council and a former Stonewall Young Campaigner.’ The writer of the blog welcomes compulsory sex education and says that the "draft guidelines are certainly a step in the right direction but present major gaps such as anatomy, pleasure and LGBTQ+ issues." https://eveappeal.org.uk/blog/the-need-for-sexual-education-on-the-curriculum/
The Migraine Trust
In a letter dated 26/11/2018 stated: ‘You can be assured that there are no plans to pursue research with human embryos, and that we in no way support other organisations that research with human embryo experimentation.’ Member of the AMRC.
The Salvation Army
‘The Salvation Army believes that life is a gift from God and we are answerable to God for the taking of life, whatever the circumstance. Therefore on only certain limited grounds may a termination of pregnancy be morally acceptable. These may include:
‘ Where the life of the mother would be in jeopardy as a consequence of the pregnancy.
‘ Where reliable diagnostic procedures have determined that there is an abnormality of the foetus that is considered to be incompatible with life for more than a very brief post natal period.
‘In addition we recognise that pregnancy occurring as the result of rape presents a special case as the act that produced the pregnancy violated the whole person of the mother and the violation may be compounded by the continuation of the pregnancy.’
‘Whilst acknowledging the legal provision for a termination of pregnancy, the Salvation Army believes the life of the unborn child should be emphasised.’
https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/positional-statements
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Tommy’s
This organisation funds research into pregnancy loss from miscarriage, still birth and premature birth.
This is their approach to parents who are told that their unborn baby has an anomaly: ‘The decision to end a pregnancy is a highly personal one. Whatever you choose for the health of your baby and/or your own health and safety is entirely up to you. In all cases, it is a tremendously difficult decision for parents to make and is often accompanied by significant sadness and grief.’
https://www.tommys.org/unknown/termination-medical-reasons-and-togetherforchange
In a letter dated 2/1/2019 Tommy’s stated: ‘we do not currently fund research using human embryos’. Member of the AMRC.
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Toybox - Changing the world for street children
This charity works with street children in countries around the world and state on its website: ‘We draw our motivation, our inspiration, from Jesus as recorded in the Bible.
In a letter dated 18/12/2018, this charity stated: ‘ …Toybox believes that women and children have the right to make their own informed decisions concerning their pregnancy of the use of contraception. … While Toybox does not run any direct health or reproductive health services, we do help street children to access government health care services which may include reproductive health one.’
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WellChild
This charity helps children living with serious long term health conditions to be cared for at home instead on hospital.
A letter dated 20/12/2018 stated: ‘We do not fund research that uses human embryos’.
World Cancer Research Fund UK
In a letter dated 27/11/2018 stated: ‘Our focus is on studies that are directly relevant to cancer prevention in humans. The creation of human-animal embryos is a long way from the type of research that World Cancer Research Fund UK would consider supporting.’ Member of the AMRC.