A core part of the work of the Steve Morgan Foundation is investing in research funding and support for type 1 diabetes. We currently fund two major initiatives in this area:
Type 1 Diabetes Grand Challenge
In 2022, we made the UK’s single-largest philanthropic contribution to diabetes research: a £50 million, five-year funding initiative known as the Type 1 Diabetes Grand Challenge. This pioneering programme is delivered in collaboration with Diabetes UK and Breakthrough T1D UK (formerly JDRF UK).
Collectively, more than 19 pioneering research projects are underway, engaging over 160 researchers from 47 institutions.
Together Type 1: empowering young people with type 1 diabetes
Together Type 1 is a dynamic peer-support and empowerment programme developed by Diabetes UK and funded by the Steve Morgan Foundation. It supports young people aged 11 to 25 living with type 1 diabetes, helping them transition more confidently into adulthood.
We committed £5 million from 2022 to deliver this national initiative. The programme is pioneering across the UK, combining online and in-person support, including:
- Increasing knowledge and confidence on how to best manage type 1 diabetes
- Reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness through developing peer support networks
- Improving relationships with healthcare professionals