ANN UK Joins UK Kidney Association: A Stronger Future for Kidney Care
The UK kidney community is set to benefit from a major development: the Association of Nephrology Nurses UK (ANN UK) has formally joined the UK Kidney Association (UKKA) as a recognised professional group. This move builds on a long-standing partnership and strengthens collaboration, education, and support across the kidney workforce.
Nurses at the Heart of Kidney Care
Nurses are central to kidney care, often acting as the key link between patients, families, and the wider healthcare team. By joining UKKA, ANN UK ensures that nursing expertise has a strong, supported voice within a single professional home for the UK kidney workforce.
This closer alignment allows nurses to take part in national discussions on kidney policy, education, and quality improvement—benefiting patients across the UK, including those living with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).
"Working collaboratively across professional groups is the best way to ensure that nursing contributes to and influences key conversations within kidney care."
— Sarah Brand, ANN UK President & Executive Committee Chair
What the Merger Means
ANN UK retains its professional identity and role in UKKA governance, while members transfer to UKKA membership with existing benefits. Nursing representation continues in committees, educational activities, and specialist networks. Existing communities of practice and networks within ANN UK will also continue, now supported within UKKA structures.
This formal agreement strengthens an already strong partnership, providing stability, clearer infrastructure, and better access to education, events, and professional development opportunities.
"Strengthening our relationship with ANN UK reflects a shared ambition to support nephrology nurses and ensure that nursing expertise shapes kidney care across the UK."
— Katie Vinen & Clare Morlidge, UKKA Presidents
Benefits for Patients and PKD Care
A well-supported kidney workforce means better outcomes for patients. PKD Charity works closely with ANN UK to raise awareness of PKD and provide information and resources to complement the expertise of renal nurses. Each year, we attend the ANN UK annual conference alongside UKKA, sharing resources, answering questions, and helping ensure PKD is visible in national kidney discussions.
This strengthened partnership will serve to build on nurses’ existing knowledge and experience, enhancing their ability to provide specialist care and support families through diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
PKD Charity looks forward to continuing our work with ANN UK and UKKA, helping to ensure that patients and families receive the support, guidance, and care they deserve.
If you would like to speak to us about what support we can offer you or a loved one, please visit PKD Support or contact us today and speak to a member of our team.
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