CLAPA

(The Cleft Lip and Palate Association)

CLAPA is the representative charitable organisation for all people with and affected by a cleft lip and/or palate in the UK.

CLAPA was set up in 1979 by a group of parents of children born with clefts and health professionals involved in their treatment. 

CLAPA work closely with the specialist cleft teams and generic health professionals to ensure that people receive the best possible care.

CLAPA offers free membership for anyone affected by or interested in cleft lip and palate. For more information visit CLAPA's website.

Local branch

Your local branch is CLAPA Bristol and South West. Our main aim is to encourage children and adults with clefts and their families to come together to share experiences and give each other support. This is usually through social events.

We aim every year to host a Christmas party (usually the first Saturday In December) and a summer picnic in June.

Funds and donations permitting, we provide all new parents with two free bottles and teats. We also support the Cleft Unit, where possible, by buying specialist equipment not otherwise funded by the NHS.

For details of events, see the events section on CLAPA's website.