Devoted to improving facilities and welfare of Kidney Patients under the care of the renal Unit of St Helier Hospital.

Aims and Objectives of the KPA

The emphasis is on patient welfare. If it can be provided, SHSKPA will try to do so.

  • To provide assistance to patients of the Renal unit requiring facilities for dialysis, while away from their local haemodialysis centre.
  • To provide some assistance to help patients of the Renal Unit who are in genuine need.
  • To provide additional amenities and equipment to St Helier and it’s satellite units.

Recent examples include Ultrasound machines, dialysis & biopsy mannequins, blood pressure machines, PD equipment, televisions, renal overlay pads and blankets.

We also sponsor patient Christmas parties at St Helier & satellites and provide a monetary gift to every renal inpatient at Christmas time.

Travel Benefits

A petrol allowance is paid to patients who are members of SHSKPA who make frequent journeys to their unit for treatment, subject to certain conditions.

Amenity fund

The amenity fund is available to patients in genuine need.

Holiday Allowances

For patients on haemodialysis holidaying in the UK, the KPA will pay some of the difference between the contribution made by the Renal Unit and the actual charge for a maximum of two weeks. For patients on haemodialysis holidaying abroad, the KPA will pay an allowance for up to two weeks to assist with haemodialysis expenses. Patients must be KPA members for more than 6 months to qualify.

Transplant Games

SHSKPA sponsors the St Helier Transplant Games Team.

National Kidney Federation

SHSKPA is affiliated to the National Kidney Federation and members receive “Kidney Life”, a quarterly magazine/newsletter from the federation. This publication keeps members informed of current trends in the treatment and facilities available to kidney patients.

Organisation

The SHSKPA Committee meets every two months. Individual Committee members take responsibility for an area of SHSKPA business though all members help each other when necessary. All committee members are unpaid volunteers.

General Meetings

are held occasionally when members can hear talks about current trends in treatment and patient care. These talks are usually given by senior members of staff at the renal unit. The Annual General Meeting is held in October / November of each year.

Financial support

SHSKPA depends on money raised through donations, covenants, legacies and fundraising events.

The main fund-raising events are the KPA Christmas draw, can rattleing at various stores in the locality of the Hospital, selling Christmas cards and occasionally, running stalls at the local carnivals.

The SHSKPA Suggestion Box is situated in the waiting room. All members of SHSKPA are welcome to make suggestions as to how to improve the facilities available for patients. Alternatively, please email webmaster@shskpa.org.
We are pleased when members make use of the suggestion box and email facilities.

Renality Newsletter Editor:

Anita Abena-Amoako
Email. anita8682@hotmail.com

Renal Social Work and Psychological Care Service

Living with a long-term health condition like kidney disease can have an impact on an individual’s physical and mental wellbeing. At times it can be emotionally and practically challenging. Kidney disease may significantly impact your life, causing a wide range of emotions and challenges. It’s common to experience a range of emotions, including fear, anger, denial, grief, sadness, anxiety, and frustration, when dealing with kidney disease, and difficulties adjusting to changes in your lifestyle and treatment.

It’s important to remember that these feelings are expected and normal, and while some people prefer to work through their feelings in their own time and with their own support network, others may prefer to speak to someone independently. Support is available from renal social workers and counsellor, to help you cope practically and emotionally.