Living with an ‘unusual’ appearance can be difficult. It’s easy to think that the condition or injury itself is the ‘problem.’ In fact one of the largest challenges people face is the reactions of other people, and the effect on their own self-confidence.

Many people don’t know how to react when they see someone with an ‘unusual’ appearance. Often they cause hurt or offence by their reaction, even if this is not what they intended.

When you constantly face staring, comments and insensitive questions even everyday activities like going to the shops, making new friends or applying for a job can seem daunting. The result is that people with unusual features are more likely to experience anxiety, self-consciousness and depression.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Many people are living full and successful lives. We believe that with the right help everyone can learn to face their future with optimism.

The reality is that health and social care often treats the medical ‘problem’ but fails to address people’s psychological and social needs.

The situation is unacceptable and unfair. It is the subject of all of our work.