Gender and diversity
Historically, more men are diagnosed with leprosy than women. Research tells us that there are no biological reasons for this, so it is likely that the problem is caused by socio-economic factors.
About us
The Leprosy Mission is a Christian organisation working for over 150 years and member of the TLM Global Fellowship: a federation of leprosy-focused NGOs with working at the grassroots to end leprosy, restore dignity, and support communities affected by the disease. Our 2025-2030 Strategy has been developed prayerfully, through periods of seeking God’s wisdom and direction. This strategy will guide how we will streamline our programmes and prioritise our funding for the next 6 years.
What We Do
At The Leprosy Mission, we are dedicated to creating a world where leprosy is no longer a barrier to health, dignity, or opportunity.
By building capacity, fostering inclusion, and championing change, we strive for a future where everyone can access healthcare, equality replaces discrimination, and individuals have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Explore our work across key themes, from disability inclusion and climate change, to innovation and research and join us in driving change.
Wellbeing
Ensuring that planned interventions are holistic in approach and consider the wellbeing of staff and clients. Mental health interventions will be risk assessed and activities implemented by trained personnel , while developing new tools to assess and support holistic wellbeing.
Climate change
Ensuring that the impacts of climate change, conflict and disasters are risk assessed, and measures are taken to strengthen the resilience of our partners, leprosy-affected communities and health systems.
Capacity development
Facilitating the organisational capacity development of partners, including assessing and supporting their ability to implement the project in question. A capacity development plan should be included as part project plans to ensure that partners and downstream partners have the skills and resources needed to achieve the desired outcomes.
Integrated approach
ensuring that, unless it is appropriate, leprosy does not stand alone as a vertical programme, rather that it is integrated with other elements such as other NTDs, dermatology, disability inclusion, climate change adaptation, livelihoods, WASH, to maximise reach, sustainability and fundability.
WASH
Research indicate that poor water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions play a pivotal role in facilitating the infection and transmission of leprosy.
Disability inclusion
Globally, one in seven people have disabilities. Millions of these people face permanent disabilities because of leprosy.
Safeguarding
Ensuring all partners and their downstream partners have effective policies and procedures in place for safeguarding, that staff have been trained, communities are aware of safeguarding, there are client feedback mechanisms in place, that reporting systems are working, and investigations are handled appropriately.
Innovation and technology
ensuring that aspects of the problem have been explored by looking at innovative solutions and technologies. This could be existing solutions adapted to a new context, or new approaches that are yet to be tried.