2025 marks the 75th anniversary of kidney professionals being represented by their own society in the UK. This means that the origins of the UKKA are only two years younger than the NHS itself! Nephrology was the first speciality to develop a multi-professional team and this is reflected in the membership and activities of the Association today.

To celebrate this milestone, the UKKA is looking forward to a year of highlighting the amazing work done in kidney medicine throughout the UK, the dedicated professionals delivering in difficult times, and the exceptional patients we care for.

Throughout 2025 you will see features on our website highlighting some of the history of kidney medicine in the UK over the last 75 years, and will have a chance to re-read just some of the groundbreaking discoveries made, and abstracts published, that have shaped and progressed our speciality. You will hear stories from a wide range of kidney professionals talking about their day-to-day working lives as well as patient stories of bravery from those living with kidney disease. UK Kidney Week will feature reflections on our journey so far and ideas for where the speciality may go in the future. Finally, UKKA will be on the road beginning a series of regional visits to hear about the amazing care that you are delivering and to ensure that the organisation we are and the future we build is truly reflective of what we need.

We hope that you are rightly proud of the fantastic care that you deliver, that you enjoy the history, stories and reflections and that you will join us in celebrating this 75th anniversary year!

How to get involved

Share your story

Do you have a great kidney story or favourite memory of your time in the UKKA/Renal Association? As part of our celebrations, we want to capture the personal experiences that make the UKKA the diverse Association it is today. Please send your stories, memories and photographs to ukka@ukkidney.org.

Highlight your kidney community hero!

Our members are the heart of the UKKA, and we want to recognise the incredible contributions you make to the Association and the wider kidney community every day. Is there a member you’d like to give a special shout out to? Tell us more in this short form for the chance to celebrate them via our e-news and at UK Kidney Week.