Giving ‘Shoesday’ 2024
The inspirational Prasant Kumar Naik, Chief Executive of the Lepra Society of India introduces our annual footwear and match-funded winter appeal for 2024...
As we conclude our centenary year, it is a time for both reflection and renewal.
Our journey has been one of tremendous growth, and this milestone offers us the opportunity to honour our past while embracing a transformative future
Your unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our mission to break the stigma surrounding leprosy, lymphatic filariasis (LF), and other neglected diseases. Together, we’ve built a movement focused on compassion, community, and resilience.
We’re excited to introduce our new strategy for the coming years, which centres around three pillars: Health, Inclusion, and Innovation. These focus areas encapsulate our vision of a world where no one is left behind.
‘Health’ recognises our historic commitment to providing accessible, high-quality care which addresses people’s physical, social and emotional needs.
‘Inclusion’ speaks to our commitment to fostering an environment of acceptance and respect, and to help eliminate the social barriers which impede early detection and treatment.
Finally, ‘Innovation’ drives us to find creative and sustainable solutions, from digitising health services to developing new technologies that help improve the quality of life for our communities.
Giving ‘Shoesday’ 2024
As is now an annual tradition, Lepra have co-opted the international day of charitable giving - Giving Tuesday (Tuesday, 3 Dec), to mark the launch of our winter match-funded appeal, and to celebrate the life-changing impact of protective footwear.
Throughout our long history, Lepra has pioneered the use of protective footwear, which play a vital role in the prevention of disabilities. With our renewed focus on innovation, footwear remains at the core of our new global strategy.
This year in India, we formalised our partnership with the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) in Hyderabad. This relationship will help us ensure that every person who needs specialised protective footwear can access it and new
To read more about our new global strategy please visit:
www.lepra.org.uk/who-we-are/our-strategy
advanced designs, which consider the unique needs of the people we support.
£1 2! from you we get...
It’s double donation time!
We have also launched a new digital platform called DIMPLE (Digital Measurement for Paduka for Leprosy and Elephantiasis), a vital tool for mapping and monitoring the disability and mobility needs of people affected by leprosy and LF. This tool is a significant leap forward in using technology to address public health needs.
By capturing real-time data, we can better understand each person’s individual requirements and ensure they receive the right interventions at the right time. This will enable us to be more efficient and reach more individuals with customised protective footwear.
As we look forward, I am inspired by what we’ve achieved and optimistic about what lies ahead. Our centenary year has reminded us that we are all part of the same Lepra family by a shared mission.
Thank you for standing with us and for believing in our vision. Together, we will continue to move forward, creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.
Launching on Giving Tuesday, and with support from our wonderful and committed donors who have pledged donations to our matchfunding pot, we are once again running our ‘£1 from you, we get 2’ appeal!
From Tuesday 3 December 2024 through to midnight on 31 March 2025, we can match your donation to Lepra. Donations can be given to Lepra in person, by cheque, or postal order.
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The gift of independence
In India, Lepra’s commitment to addressing the footwear needs of individuals affected by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) like leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF) has seen significant success.
While leprosy can cause nerve damage which leaves people susceptible to injuries, LF can result in severe and painful swelling of the legs and feet.
Lepra’s protective footwear serve as an essential element of selfcare; providing not only protection from injury and improved mobility, also playing an important role in overcoming the social and emotional impact of leprosy and LF.
Each pair is custom-made for the individual, helping to reduce pressure, prevent injury and ulcers from developing, and help to support healing and recovery. For people affected by LF, specially designed shoes are able to accommodate swollen limbs, helping them to continue their work and daily activities without discomfort or further risk of injury.
This assistance is crucial not only in maintaining mobility but also in preventing further economic hardship, as access to protective footwear allows people to continue earning a livelihood and avoid social isolation
In 2024 Lepra’s advocacy efforts in Bihar, led to the inclusion of protective footwear in self-care kits distributed by the government, an achievement that helps to sustain footwear access locally.
Lepra’s new footwear production unit in the state is helping to ensure consistency in supply and a sustainable long-term approach for the communities we support.
Empowering Communities
Looking forward, Lepra is introducing participatory workshops in India where people affected by leprosy and LF are fully involved in the footwear design process. These workshops foster a sense of ownership within the community and empower people to create solutions which meet their unique needs.
According to the World Health Organization
» A highly skilled footwear technician making custom footwear at Lepra’s new production unit.
remain: in 2023 alone, over 180,000 new leprosy cases were reported globally, and millions are still at risk of LF in endemic regions. The need for Lepra’s work is clear, as these programmes not only enhance individual health outcomes but also contribute to building resilient communities equipped to face these challenges.
Expanding Capacity in Bangladesh
The demand for specialised footwear among people affected by leprosy and lymphatic filariasis in Bangladesh is both pressing and significant.
It is estimated that around 15,000 people affected by leprosy in Bangladesh are impacted by plantar anaesthesia and require at least 30,000 of specialised footwear each year, yet only 6,710
were provided, In addressing these challenges, Lepra Bangladesh are able to draw on proven models from Lepra’s successful initiatives in India, focused on accessible, custom-made footwear distributed through both stationary workshops mobile footwear
A similar model in has potential to significantly enhance access to tailored footwear for people affected by leprosy and LF in underserved
Thank you for continuing to support our footwear projects in India and Bangladesh. With your generosity, in 202324 we were able 29,952 additional pairs of life-changing shoes and sandals.
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Indramani Urang from Bangladesh is able to maintain her independence thanks to Lepra’s protective footwear.
A step towards sustainability
Providing Mobility and Dignity: How Lepra’s Mobile Footwear Vans Are Transforming Lives in Bihar.
Lepra is dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by neglected tropical diseases like leprosy.
One of our most impactful initiatives is our mobile footwear van, which provides custom-made, protective shoes to vulnerable individuals, restoring their mobility and dignity.
Recently, our Corporate Partnerships Manager, visited Bihar, India, to witness firsthand the incredible difference these shoes are making.
“On a hot October day, I arrived at the Ramnager leprosy settlement, where I was greeted by smiling faces. Our mobile shoe van was parked nearby, with a footwear technician carefully measuring the foot of Malti, a 60-year-old widow who has lived here for nearly 40 years.
Malti has severe disabilities, caused by a late diagnosis of leprosy. Without protective shoes, walking is painful
But now, thanks to Lepra’s custom-made shoes, she can walk comfortably, perform daily tasks, and even venture to the market without fear of injury or judgment. Seeing the joy on her face as she tried on her new closed-toe shoes is something I’ll never forget.”
The introduction of closed-toe shoes is a breakthrough for individuals like Malti, helping to reduce the stigma associated with leprosy. These shoes not only protect her feet but also allow her to move through public spaces with
Thanks to the support of , Pavers, and , Lepra recently opened a new shoe-making unit in Kaimur, Bihar, allowing us to produce more shoes and offer a wider variety of styles. This
» Matt meeting Lepra’s Footwear production team in Bihar.
» Malti is overjoyed with her new pair of shoes.
gives people like Malti more choice in what they wear, ensuring that their shoes meet both their physical and emotional needs.
Each mobile footwear van plays a crucial role in delivering lifechanging support to communities like Ramnager. With a capital cost of £40,000, purchasing and equipping a van ensures it can travel across states, reaching people affected by leprosy in remote and underserved areas.
The van enables the distribution of custom-made, supportive footwear,
For just £50, you can fund the operation of a mobile shoe van for an entire day, helping deliver footwear to 20-30 individuals in hard-toreach regions of India. This ensures that those in isolated communities receive the critical support they need, significantly improving their comfort and quality of life.
By supporting our footwear projects, you can help individuals like Malti maintain their independence, protect their feet from further damage, and regain their confidence to live their lives without fear or judgment Every contribution makes a interested in partnering please do get in touch.
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International Men’s Day 2024
For International Men’s Day 2024, we are raising awareness of a condition which, despite the availability of a simple surgical fix, has a profound impact on the physical, social and emotional health of men.
Hydrocele causes fluid to collect around the genitals leading to extreme swelling.
1% of men globally will be affected by the condition in their lifetime. It is estimated that half of men infected with lymphatic filariasis (LF), in childhood will develop the complication of hydrocele in adult life.
Over 657 million people worldwide remain threatened by LF, caused by filarial parasites, transmitted through mosquitoes. The infection causes damage to the lymphatic system which can remain hidden for some time before symptoms show.
Often unable to have sex, men find their relationships can be put under strain and single men can find it difficult to find a partner accepting of their condition. Overall, hydrocele attracts significant prejudice, discrimination and invariably leads to social isolation and emotional health difficulties.
Due to the social stigma surrounding the disease and concerns about the potential cost of surgery and travel for treatment, many men delay coming forward causing their condition to worsen, risking potential complications such as infection and infertility.
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» Rajni (right) leading early case detection activity in Bihar.
www.internationalmensday.com
“I carried hydrocele for 6-7 years without telling anyone, only my wife and I knew. One day my brother noticed me walking strangely and he said you must come with me to see the doctor. The doctor took some tests and asked me to return the next day. It was a simple procedure that only took half an hour with local anaesthetic and now I am living a very normal life.”
in Bihar (India) committed to providing additional funding to greatly increase the availability of surgery for men affected by the condition.
Despite the progress Lepra has made in tackling the physical and social impact of hydrocele, there is still much work to be done. According to WHO, in 2023 there was an increase of 258,886 men globally diagnosed with hydrocele and 7,380 surgeries reported.
Our ambitious global strategy offers hope to thousands of men living in endemic areas of India and Bangladesh. Working in partnership with national and local government and existing healthcare structures, Lepra help by providing specialist treatment services, to support people to overcome the physical, social, and emotional impact of their diagnosis.
To date, a total of 4,000 surgeries have been successfully conducted, and it is hoped that through partnering with local government and endemic communities, Lepra can continue to improve availability of care for people affected by LF across other states of India.
Involvement of people affected by LF is at the core of Lepra’s approach. Throughout India and Bangladesh, Lepra facilitate networks of
Thanks to Lepra’s advocacy at state level, in August the Government
2023-2024
Our Impact 2023-24
With your kindness and support, Lepra’s programmes in India and Bangladesh have continued to reach thousands of the world’s most vulnerable people.
1,233,092
In India we screened 1,233,092 people in endemic areas for neglected tropical diseases.
813
We supported 813 self-support groups, helping to provide practical and social support within the community.
52,438
8,724
We reached 52,438 vulnerable people in Bangladesh, providing diagnosis, treatment and holistic care.
61,215
We reached 61,215 vulnerable people in India providing diagnosis, treatment and holistic care.
31,835
We trained 31,835 people in self-care to help manage their condition at home.
We issued 29,952 pairs of protective footwear, helping to restore people’s hope, dignity and independence.
29,952
8,724 children reached with health education and awareness raising school visits in Bangladesh.
Images from ‘New Face for Leprosy’ exhibition. Thank you to Professor Diana Lockwood and photographer Tom Bradley
We reached a total of 2,359,415 people in endemic communities through health education, screening and events.
20,934 people took part in meetings to advocate for their rights and inclusion in society.
2,002
834
We trained 2,002 government health staff, helping to strengthen local, regional and national health systems and provide early diagnosis and treatment.
We facilitated 834 lifechanging hydrocele operations for men affected by LF.
3,238
We helped 3,238 people with leprosy and LF access government grants and support for the first time.
221
2,359,415 Thank You!
We trained 14,294 front line community health workers, teachers and volunteers to recognise the early signs of leprosy.
221 people affected by leprosy received reconstructive surgery to restore the movement and appearance of their hands and feet
92p in every pound donated to Lepra, goes directly to funding our research, treatment and advocacy services.
The remaining 8p helps us raise the next pound!
A Shared Vision
Lepra are delighted to announce a three-year partnership agreement with Asian Media Group (AMG), Britain’s largest Asian publishing househelping us to raise awareness to influential new audiences.
AMG was founded by Ramniklal Solanki CBE on April 1, 1968, with the launch of its flagship title, Garavi Gujarat.
More than five decades later, AMG’s array of consumer and business titles includes not only Garavi Gujarat, but also Eastern Eye, a national news weekly aimed at British south Asians;
These include the GG2 Leadership and Diversity Awards, the Asian Business Awards, the Arts, Culture & Theatre Awards (ACTAs), Pharmacy Business Awards and Asian Trader Awards.
”We are delighted to partner with Lepra and highlight their work through our publications and events.
Supporter Spotlight
Throughout Lepra’s centenary year, we are shining a light on our countless supporters and partners, and celebrating the extraordinary contribution they have made to our cause.
ne of our longest-serving and most dedicated supporters, Professor Harry Singh Gill, shares how he was first inspired to give to Lepra and why he continues to champion the cause.
In 1963, when Harry was just 17 years old, he lived at the YMCA in Wimbledon where each Sunday a guest speaker was invited.
“One week, a representative from Lepra gave a talk about leprosy and I was so touched! I said to myself if I ever had any spare change, I would donate it to Lepra which, whenever I have been gainfully employed, I have done so.”
For Harry, Lepra’s key strengths are the ability to identify cases early, provide treatment and reduce prejudice.
“One person’s story who I found particularly memorable was 42-yearold Maksuda from Bangladesh. Affected by leprosy, she was shunned by her family and society. She received treatment from Lepra and was given a micro-loan to start a chicken farm. She not only became self-sufficient but was able to provide for her family reasonably well ”
Harry believes that education is key to overcoming the prejudice of leprosy.
“Even once a person has received treatment, some people still have this notion that the disease can spread.”
We were delighted that Harry was able to join us for our centenary celebration at the House of Commons in February this year.
With Harry’s support, we have been able to detect, treat and care for more people affected by leprosy whilst raising much-needed awareness.
Scan the QR code below to watch Harry’s interview!
Professor Harry Singh Gill at Lepra’s
A year to remember
As our centenary year nears its end, we look back at the celebratory events which helped to mark our 100 years of research and innovation for people affected by leprosy and LF.
» July 2023
We introduced our upcoming centenary in July, with a special podcast and radio broadcast featuring Jimmy Innes and Lepra historian Irene Allen, to mark the anniversary of the organisation’s inception.
» October 2023
In October we hosted a special supporters’ event at The Athenaeum Club in London with our Vice-President, His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester as guest of honour.
The evening also saw the debut of Tom Bradley and Professor Diana Lockwood’s ‘A New Face for Leprosy’ exhibition.
» January 2024
In January, we held a special celebratory public service at Westminster Cathedral led by Bishop Declan Lang. The congregation came together to recognise the many people who have supported Lepra over the last 100 years, and to help us raise awareness of the cause. There was another opportunity to view ‘A New Face for Leprosy’ exhibition.
» Feburary 2024
In February, we invited esteemed supporters to join us at The House of Commons to mark World Leprosy Day and the formal launch of our centenary celebration. The event was hosted by Colchester MP, the Rt. Hon Will Quince
April 2024
7 runners took on the challenge of the London Marathon raising over £17,000 for Lepra.
June 2024
Tom Barton our Challenge Ambassador took on an epic 24-hour running event called Endure24, raising thousands to help support vulnerable communities in India and Bangladesh.
» September 2024
We launched our BBC Radio 4 Appeal led by Ambassador and best-selling author, Victoria Hislop.
On Friday 6 September, Lepra Ambassador and Pavers’ Chair, Stuart Paver joined fellow colleague Steve Ovenden and Lepra’s Matt Lovelock in ‘The 100 Shoe Walk’; a challenge event, walking three miles barefoot around the York Bar Walls.
» November 2024
Invited guests joined us at St James’ Palace for the launch of our new global strategy, helping us to advocate for neglected tropical diseases at the highest possible level.
» December 2024
The New Face for Leprosy exhibition travelled to Wells Cathedral, to complete a year of outings, including an exhibit at Coventry Cathedral. Stay in touch to find out where the exhibition is visiting in 2025!
To find out more about our upcoming events and how you can get involved, please visit: www.lepra.org.uk/events
However you supported our work this year, THANK YOU
us
From Tuesday 3 December 2024 through to midnight on 31 March 2025, we can match your donation to Lepra. Donations can be given to Lepra over the telephone, online, by cheque, or postal order.
Scan the QR code to get involved!
£13 will provide 2 pairs of protective shoes. These are crucial for someone whose feet have been affected by leprosy or lymphatic filariasis, allowing them to walk without pain or risk of further injury.
£50 will pay for a mobile footwear unit to provide shoes to 20-30 people in isolated regions across India. Helping to ensure that those in hard-to-reach communities receive the vital footwear they need.
£100 will fund a shoe technician for 2 weeks, to craft personalised footwear, tailored to people’s specific needs. This ensures a steady supply of custom-made, high-quality footwear is available for the people who need it.
Five reasons to give regularly
Help people and their families affected by leprosy and LF to receive the right care, at the right time and in the right place.
Help us plan future projects in the areas which need it most.
Spread your giving across the year, and change or stop payments at any time.
Stay informed through regular newsletters and progress updates. Help keep our administration costs low.
