VITAL Projects Partners with CLAPA

VITAL Projects is proud to announce an exciting new collaboration with CLAPA, the UK’s leading charity supporting individuals born with a cleft lip and/or palate. This partnership will see the delivery of a tailored Self Advocacy Training programme designed to empower CLAPA’s members with the confidence, skills, and knowledge to speak up for themselves and navigate everyday challenges.

The training programme focuses on building self-confidence, improving communication skills, and helping participants understand their rights and choices. 

VITAL Projects, known for its person-centred approach and commitment to inclusion, has worked closely with CLAPA to ensure the training reflects the lived experiences of individuals affected by cleft conditions. The sessions are designed to be supportive, engaging, and accessible, creating a safe space where participants can share experiences and learn from one another.

A spokesperson from CLAPA said: 

CLAPA is pleased to be partnering with Vital Projects, a user-led advocacy organisation, to deliver a series of Introduction to Self-Advocacy workshops for members of the cleft community. These interactive sessions will support parents and adults affected by cleft lip and palate to build confidence in speaking up, asking for what they need, and understanding their rights. By combining CLAPA’s knowledge of the community with Vital Projects’ advocacy expertise, the workshops aim to equip participants with practical communication skills while creating a supportive space to share experiences. Ultimately, strengthening self-advocacy can help individuals feel more empowered when navigating healthcare, education and other services, ensuring their voices are heard.

A spokesperson from VITAL Projects said:
“We are delighted to be working alongside CLAPA and their incredible community. Self-advocacy is a vital life skill, and this programme is all about giving people the tools and confidence to have their voices heard."

Training will begin in May 2026 and will be delivered in two separate sessions for adults with a cleft and for parents/carers.