The CGD Society is the leading UK charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by Chronic Granulomatous Disorder (CGD) — a rare, life-limiting genetic condition that affects the immune system.
We provide expert information, emotional support, and practical guidance to those living with CGD, as well as funding specialist nursing care.
Our mission is to ensure that no one faces CGD alone. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a long-time carer, or a healthcare professional, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Our Mission
To be the leading source of information and support for families and individuals affected by CGD in the UK and around the world, by sharing the learnings and expertise from patients and medical professionals who treat them.
Our Vision
Our vision is to enable families and individuals affected by CGD to live life to the full.
We will achieve this by:
- offering direct support to individuals and families affected by CGD through the provision of nursing services, an email and telephone helpline, patient events and financial assistance.
- providing comprehensive and clearly written information on CGD, associated issues and research, that is easily accessible through a variety of media.
- funding pioneering research that will lead to an improved understanding of disease mechanisms in CGD and that may result in the translation of laboratory-based research into clinical benefit and improved quality of life for patients.
- evolving the charity’s relevance to members and the wider CGD community based on ongoing review of the community’s needs
Our Team
Helen Braggins – Clinical Nurse Specialist
Helen is a Registered Sick Children’s Nurse and General Nurse, working full-time as our CGD Clinical Nurse Specialist at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London.
She has wide-ranging experience in haematology, oncology, child protection, complex needs, and adolescent care. Helen supports CGD patients and families across the UK via phone, email, and in-person at GOSH.
Her role includes coordinating CGD clinics, supporting transplants, delivering IV home therapy, and offering pre- and ante-natal advice for X-linked CGD carriers.
Claire Liddle – Executive Director
Claire has personal family experience of CGD and so has a good understanding of what life is like living with the condition. As Executive Director, Claire plays a strategic role in achieving our charities objectives agreed by our board of trustees. Claire is our only full time member of staff.
Claire started working with the charity in January 2018 as our Charity Coordinator and has successfully taken the charity forward in a new positive direction. Claire is the first point of contact for our members and continues to provide advice and support to many families and individuals living with CGD.
Catherine Bean – Fundraising and Marketing Officer
Catherine joined CGD Society in 2024, bringing her passion for advocacy and experience in nonprofit development to the role. In this position, Catherine is responsible for driving fundraising initiatives, enhancing public awareness, and developing marketing strategies to support the charity’s mission of improving the lives of individuals and families affected by CGD.
With a strong background in charitable work, Catherine has previously worked in various roles that combine community engagement, donor relations, and event planning.
