 | CLEFT LIP AND PALATE ASSOCIATION |
During the early part of pregnancy, separate areas of the face and head
develop individually and then join together. If certain parts do not join
properly the result is a cleft lip and/or palate. The cause is not known but it
can sometimes run in families. Problems are likely to be associated with
speech, hearing, feeding, facial growth, appearance and badly placed teeth. CLAPA is a support organisation for all those with - and affected by - cleft
lip and palate.It is a partnership between parents and health professionals
concerned with the care and treatment of cleft lip and palate. CLAPA offers
support by: - Organising local parent-to-parent support through its nationwide network of
branches.
- Running a specialist service for parents and health professionals seeking
help feeding babies with clefts.
- Encouraging and supporting research into causes and treatment of cleft lip
and palate.
- Representing the needs of patients and parents, influencing policy on
future treatment of cleft lip and palate.
- Conducting educational seminars for health professionals and the general
public.
- Raising funds in the community for specific treatment and equipment.
- Publishing and distributing a range of information leaflets, increasing
public awareness of the condition.
Contact the above address for details of local contacts.
Cleft Lip and Palate Association
235-237 Finchley Road
London
NW3 6LS  020-7431 0033
 020-7431 8881
 http://www.clapa.mcmail.com
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