The pressing need for speedier diagnosis of kidney disease has been spelled out to a local MP

Justin Madders, Member of Parliament for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough, attended a cross-party Parliamentary reception to show support for action to improve kidney disease prevention, speed up diagnosis and increase access to better treatments.

Key changes that could help tackle one of the UK’s fastest growing health crises were highlighted at the event, hosted by Kidney Research UK, which brought together Parliamentarians, clinicians, and patient voices from across the country.

Figures reveal the scale of the challenge in Cheshire West and Wirral, with an estimated 844,214 people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and 365 currently receiving dialysis treatment.

In 2023 – the latest figures available – 34 kidney transplants were carried out locally, but six people across the UK die every week while waiting for a transplant. The condition is also placing a significant strain on local health services, costing the regional economy about £5.2 million per year.

Those at the reception heard an emotional speech from 15-year-old Charlie Frieland who shared his story of childhood kidney disease. It involved more than 7,500 hours (a cumulative year of his life) on essential dialysis treatment before his recent life-changing transplant. Charlie’s plea for earlier diagnosis and fairer access to treatments received cross-party support and was followed by remarks from Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

Mr Madders, formerly Shadow Health Minister, said:

“Hearing directly from patients like Charlie really brought home the human cost of kidney disease.

“I want to see earlier diagnosis and better support for kidney patients, both locally and across the UK.”

The reception heard kidney disease now affects an estimated 7.2 million people in the UK – many undiagnosed – and how urgent reforms are needed to increase early detection, improve access to effective medicines, and offer better, more accessible treatment options for kidney failure.  

Sandra Currie, Kidney Research UK chief executive, added:

“It’s clear we need urgent, targeted action to help the 844,214 people across in and around Ellesmere Port and Bromborough impacted by kidney disease – from earlier diagnosis to better treatment options and investment in innovation.

“We hope this event marks a turning point in how kidney health is prioritised in Westminster and in every healthcare setting.”

Pictured – Justin Madders MP.