Adult heart patients are at increased risk from COVID-19 and urgently need mental health support. They have also seen their specific NHS clinics changed to COVID centres.
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The Somerville Foundation are the only UK charity dedicated to supporting adults born with a heart condition (ACHD). There are over 250,000 adults who were born with a heart condition living in the UK. The Somerville Foundation further provides support for young people transitioning into adult heart services. The charity exists to create a world where they receive excellent medical care, and lead happy, healthy lives.
What is CHD? Congenital heart defect (CHD) describes a heart condition or defect that developed in the womb. The term “congenital” means the condition is present from birth. The Somerville Foundation is the UK’s only charity that supports Adult Congenital Heart Patients (ACHD).
CHD is one of the most common types of congenital disability, affecting up to eight in every 1,000 babies. Today, there are over 250,000 adults who were born with such a condition living in the UK. And there are now more adults than children living with the condition.
These patients all have different experiences, struggles and achievements. We provide Adult Congenital Heart Support in a number of ways such mental health and well being, assistance in applying for grants, providing relevant information and access to resources and hosting events.
And, with many distinct types of CHD, we aim to ensure they all receive the medical care, support and advice they need to lead happy, healthy lives.
But we can’t do it alone. In order to ensure they enjoy access to every opportunity, are free from discrimination, and are fully supported throughout their lives, we need your help.
In most cases, there is no apparent cause of congenital heart defects. We just don’t know why a heart hasn’t developed normally. However, some things do increase the risk of CHD. These include:
CHD is sometimes picked up during an ultrasound scan before a baby is born. However, in many cases CHD is not diagnosed until after the baby is born. Some conditions may not be discovered until the child becomes an adult.
There are many different types of CHD. Sometimes it is possible to suffer from more than one defect.
Treatment for CHD depends on the type and severity of the condition. For minor problems, treatment may never be needed, while others may require medication or heart surgery; often throughout adulthood. Just 60 years ago, the majority of babies born with a congenital heart defect did not survive to see their first birthday.
Today, eight out of ten survive to adulthood.The BHF
But there is much more that can be done. Help us make a difference.
The helpline will be answered Monday-Thurs, 9-5. Please note that this is not an emergency helpline. If you are feeling in despair and really need to talk to someone immediately you should call the Samaritans on 116 123. For medical emergencies go to A&E or dial 999.
We are not able to provide medical advice; please contact your GP or ACHD specialist team in this regard, full contact details can be found on our specialist centres page.
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