MND Association
A partnership committed to progress
One of the Foundation’s most significant long-term partnerships has been with the MND Association (MNDA), the UK’s leading charity dedicated to improving care, funding research, and campaigning for people affected by MND.
Through a series of major grants and project-specific support, the Alan Davidson Foundation has contributed to both frontline care and scientific progress, helping to change outcomes and expectations for people living with this devastating condition.
Funding for frontline support and research
The Foundation’s contributions to the MNDA have spanned multiple areas:
1. MND Research and Clinical Trials
The Alan Davidson Foundation has provided core funding for MND research initiatives through the MNDA, enabling:
The development of early-phase research that forms the basis of larger clinical trials.
Participation in collaborative funding models with other organisations to accelerate drug discovery.
Support for high-impact, peer-reviewed projects focused on understanding disease mechanisms, biomarker development, and potential therapeutic targets.
These efforts reflect the Foundation’s broader commitment to innovative and translational research, aiming not only to slow the progression of MND but to help find a cure.
2. Support for Specialist MND Nurses
The Foundation has made targeted contributions to the MNDA’s Care Centre Network, with funds directed toward the training, retention, and coordination of specialist MND nurses. Funding also supports the wheelchair provision service. These professionals play a vital role in helping people with MND navigate the complex and evolving challenges of the disease—from diagnosis through to advanced care planning.
This mirrors the Foundation’s own direct involvement in clinical care pathways through initiatives like the Davidson Nurses Programme (launched via MND-SMART), and reflects Alan Davidson’s family background—his mother was a nurse, and compassionate care was close to his heart.
3. Welfare and Equipment Grants
In keeping with the Foundation’s focus on improving quality of life, it has also contributed to MNDA-administered welfare grants, which support families with the cost of vital assistive technology, home adaptations, and mobility equipment. These interventions make a tangible difference to day-to-day independence and comfort for people living with MND.
Why the Alan Davidson Foundation supports the MND Association
The MND Association is the UK’s most established voice for people with MND. Its work combines national advocacy with practical, localised support. The Alan Davidson Foundation’s decision to partner with MNDA is grounded in shared values:
- A commitment to improving lives through access to care, research, and support
- A belief in collaboration, working with partners to create systemic change
- A focus on urgency and innovation in response to a disease that currently has no cure
- A desire to honour Alan’s experience by supporting others living with the condition he faced
Together, the two organisations work to ensure that people with MND are heard, helped, and given hope.
Looking ahead
The Alan Davidson Foundation remains deeply committed to its partnership with the MND Association. As the charity continues its pioneering work in research, care, and advocacy, the Foundation will continue to champion its efforts—honouring Alan Davidson’s legacy by helping improve the lives of others facing the same journey.
In Alan’s memory, the Foundation is determined to support initiatives that deliver practical help today while paving the way for breakthroughs tomorrow.
