New partnership launched with The Leprosy Mission Great Britain

The University of Essex’s Centre for Global Health and Intersectional Equity Research is partnering with The Leprosy Mission Great Britain (TLMGB) to help bolster outcomes for people affected by neglected tropical diseases.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed by the Centre and charity to mark the beginning of a collaborative effort that aims to strengthen research, interventions, and capacities in a neglected but vital area.

It also presents shared opportunities for both institutions to work on common areas of interest to advance public and global health.

Centre Director, Professor Anuj Kapilashrami, said: “The Centre is thrilled to launch this partnership with TLMGB, opening new opportunities for researchers, global health and other students, health workers, and communities affected by neglected tropical diseases.

“The collaboration strengthens our shared commitment to drive social change, closing the inequality gap, and building lasting, equitable partnerships.

“Leprosy and NTDs primarily impact the most marginalised and impoverished populations in the world, though they are preventable and treatable, imposing a severe human, societal, and economic burden that must be addressed.”

The MoU was signed following a series of successful engagements with TLMGB’s country partners and discussions on how to enhance research-informed policy and practice.

There has been a particular focus on ways to engage affected communities and more grounded, effective health service responses to leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases.

Professor Stavroula Karapapa, Essex’s Dean of Partnerships (Research), said: “Through this new partnership with The Leprosy Mission Great Britain, we aim to advance research, education, and health equity.

“By working together, we hope to help reduce inequalities, support affected communities and address the significant human and economic burden of leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases.”

The Leprosy Mission Great Britain CEO Peter Waddup welcomed the partnership, saying: "The University of Essex's track record of excellent global health research and commitment to amplifying the voices of those affected by leprosy and other neglected diseases will not only expand our understanding of these diseases and their impact, but also make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of the people affected by them."