Thank you to everyone who has signed the petition to add SMA to the newborn screening test in England so far. We’ve now received nearly 150,000 signatures, which is an incredible milestone. Each and every signature represents real support for the SMA community, and it means a great deal.
If you haven’t already done so, please continue to add your name and share the petition by clicking here. The more people who get behind this, the more pressure we can build to ensure that spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is included in the heel prick (newborn screening) test as soon as possible.
We have also recently received an update from the Government confirming that the petition will be debated publicly on Monday 22 June in the second chamber of the House of Commons.
A key message we want to bring to that debate is the importance of expanding the screening pilot across the whole of England, rather than limiting it to the currently planned 70%. Early diagnosis is vital, and widening access to newborn screening would make a life-changing difference.
This is where your support can really make an impact.
We are asking you to write to your MP and encourage them to attend the debate on 22 June. It is important that as many MPs as possible are present to support the urgent inclusion of SMA in the heel prick screening programme without delay.
Below, we have provided a draft letter you can use, along with a postcode checker to help you find and contact your local MP easily.
The outcome of this debate has the potential to make a significant difference to the lives of many newborn babies and their families.
Writing to your MP is quick and easy, and just a few minutes of your time can make a powerful difference.
How to write to your MP:
1. Download and open our template letter:
You can download the template here.
2. Edit the letter with your own details
Add your name, address, and any personal comments you’d like to include. Personalising your message makes it even more impactful.
3. Find your local MP:
Find your local MP here by entering your postcode.
4. Select your MP, paste in your amended letter, and hit send.
That’s it! Thank you for standing with the SMA community.
