GIG aims to provide support and raise awareness of genetic disorders
The Genetic Interest Group (GIG) has launched a website offering support and infor- mation to all individuals affec- ted by genetic disorders.
The site features all the policy documents GIG has produced and covers a variety of areas including how people with genetic disorders can obtain insurance, as well as further details on different types of genetic disorders.
A selection of five video testimonies featuring interviews with GIG members is also available on the site.
Each clip sees a GIG member detail the impact a genetic disorder diagnosis has had on their lives and examines the resource and information facilities that were available to provide them with more information on the disorder.
Visitors to the site are also encouraged to participate in an online survey about each clip, which GIG hopes will provide an insight into those affected and how genetic disorders are perceived by the public.
GIG's communications officer, Melissa Winter, said the site aims to raise awareness and provide a source of information for genetic disorders.
'The smaller charities with who we work may not have the funding or time to work towards raising awareness. Similarly, the larger charities may have their fingers in a number of pies and we can help to promote awareness in this specialist area,' she said.
Alastair Kent, director of GIG, believes the site encourages people to develop their knowledge and inform others about genetic disorders.
'The website provides the opportunity for those who live with genetic disorders every day to have their say on the issues that matter to them,' he said.
Information and website links to GIG's 120 charity members, which includes Cancer Res- earch UK, can also be found on the website: www.gig.org.uk
