Urgent Appeal: save NPUK after devastating fire

Dear friends and supporters,

Last night, Vermont House - where the NPUK Central Office is based - was maliciously targeted in a serious fire that destroyed much of the building. For months, the complex has faced threats, graffiti, and demonstrations directed at the Labour MP’s office (Sharon Hodgson) nearby. Sadly, this culminated in a devastating attack, leaving our office caught in the middle of the destruction.

As this is now a crime scene, we cannot yet fully assess the damage. But with neighbouring offices destroyed and our own directly in between, we fear that little will remain.

This disaster comes at a time when we are already struggling to keep afloat as a small charity. NPUK is the UK’s leading - and only - charity solely dedicated to Niemann-Pick diseases. We provide vital support, information, advocacy, and a sense of community to those affected by these devastating rare conditions. Losing our office, our base for so many years, and countless resources is a huge blow, but we are determined to carry on for the families who rely on us.

While we will be working with insurers, seeking legal advice, and creating a continuity plan, the immediate costs of disruption and recovery are far beyond what we can manage alone.

That’s why we are asking for your support. Every donation, big or small, will help us rebuild, recover vital equipment, and ensure we can continue supporting families affected by Niemann-Pick diseases.

Thank you so much,

John Lee Taggart

NPUK Head of Communications