We are funding the first ever research project involving Kidney Beam, the online service helping kidney patients take care of their physical and mental health. The unique service was originally developed to help kidney patients who were shielding during the first lockdown and is likely to also help those who struggle to access in-person classes in future. 

However, sustaining the service will require external support and compelling evidence is needed before a service such as this can be commissioned by funders on an ongoing basis. 

The first research project on Kidney Beam will assess how well it improves quality of life and if it is cost effective, hopefully building the evidence base for support. 

“We’re really pleased the charity has been able to continue to support patients at a time when access to traditional services has become so difficult,” said Sandra Currie, chief executive of Kidney Research UK. “The research we are also funding will show whether Kidney Beam will overcome the barriers to physical activity and emotional support services in an efficient and financially sustainable way. If positive, the outcomes will be submitted to the NHS with the intention that Kidney Beam will get commissioned, offering security for the service beyond 2021.”  

Over 1,000 people have signed up to the service which offers a range of live or recorded fitness and wellbeing classes led by NHS kidney health professionals, and other qualified instructors including people living with kidney disease.  

Why not give Kidney Beam a try? 

Find out more about the range of classes and support available.