GWENDA THOMAS AM WELCOMES £1.9M TO IMPROVE CARE FOR THALIDOMIDE SURVIVORS IN WALES

First Minister Carwyn Jones has announced £1.9million for the Thalidomide Trust to improve the care and support for thalidomide survivors in Wales.

The funding which will be available from April will be distributed amongst survivors to help meet their health needs and minimise any further deterioration of their condition.

This funding will be in addition to £20million announced by the Department of Health last month for the Thalidomide Trust for a pilot scheme to support thalidomiders, as they refer to themselves.

Between 1958 and 1961, the drug, thalidomide, was used by expectant mothers to control symptoms of morning sickness. Tragically, this led to many babies being born with often severe physical disabilities. There are 31 thalidomiders in Wales.

Neath Constituency’s AM Gwenda Thomas said: ‘The responsibility for addressing the ongoing needs of thalidomide survivors rests with the UK Government as it authorised its use, and the survivors in Wales will have access to a share of the money provided by the Department of Health.’

‘It is marvellous news, however, that the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government will provide extra funding to ensure more care and support for people affected by thalidomide.’

‘This funding, in Association with the Thalidomide Trust, will help thalidomide survivors to manage their increasing health needs as they get older.’