UBS Blazes Trail For The Andy Cole Fund And Kidney Research UK

Kidney Research UK has signed global financial services firm UBS as its first corporate supporter of the Andy Cole Fund, helping to fund research into kidney disease. Legendary footballer Andy Cole launched the fund in May 2020, five years after his kidneys completely failed.

Spurred on by kidney patient Sarah Viner, co-chair of the inclusive staff network Ability Awareness at UBS and staffer member of the London office of UBS since 1987, the firm decided to join Andy Cole’s First XI – the special club of 11 businesses forming the backbone of the fund through sponsorship.

UBS marked the UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities on  December 3rd by running a programme of virtual activities for staff. 

Andy has been impressed by the firm’s commitment to supporting people with disabilities and health conditions saying: “One reason I set up the Andy Cole Fund was because people just don’t understand how hard it can be living with kidney disease. It’s a hidden condition. Often you wouldn’t know what someone is going through just by looking at them. I’ve found it really tough and I’m hoping we can make it so much better for others by helping scientists to work out how to improve transplants and patients’ mental health. I’m so happy that UBS is joining my team - its sponsorship will help us change the game for kidney patients.”

Marc Stowell, executive director of income generation for Kidney Research UK said: “This is a special partnership between former international footballer Andy, leading global financial services company UBS, and the largest kidney research charity in the UK. Together, we will increase awareness of kidney disease and the Andy Cole Fund across the globe and make a huge difference to people’s lives through groundbreaking research. We are very excited to bring UBS on board.”

To join the Andy Cole Fund First XI as a sponsor, contact marcstowell@kidneyresearchuk.org.