Our history

Since 1988 we have been working to save skin and transform lives. Here’s a quick history of how our charity has changed and developed over the years.

Beginnings

In 1987/8 Mr Roy Sanders, Mr Brian Morgan, Mr Douglas Harrison and Mr Paul Smith – four consultant plastic surgeons based at Mount Vernon Hospital – discussed setting up a charity that would support research and education in the fields of reconstructive plastic surgery and burn injury treatment. As well as wanting to provide a place where research could be carried out, they aimed to create an environment where surgeons and scientists could work together to bring rapid advances to patient care. To start the charity they donated the fees they earned in private practice, along with the help and support of Patrick MacNamee.

Professor John Scales, newly retired from The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital at Stanmore and with whom Roy Sanders had worked in the past, was persuaded to come to Mount Vernon in the role as Director of Research of the proposed research charity (in an honorary capacity).

Early years

At this time Sir Robin Chichester-Clark heard of their plans and, impressed by all he learned of the enthusiasm and dedication of the surgeons, joined the team and became Chairman of the charity. Thus RAFT (The Restoration of Appearance and Function Trust), was formed in July 1988.

In the early days the charity had no 'home'. The directorate at Mount Vernon Hospital generously provided a couple of unused rooms, which became embryonic laboratories and an office. Meetings regarding fundraising and administration matters were held late in the evenings at various people's homes but gradually the structure emerged and RAFT began to blossom.

In February 1990 the charity was greatly honoured when The Duchess of Kent consented to be Chief Patron, and she continues to be a loyal and interested supporter of the charity and its aims.

In 1992 the consultant plastic surgeons handed over the reins to a new board of 'outside' Trustees under the Chairmanship of Sir Robin; Mr Peter Forbes; Mr Michael Garston; Sir David Napley; Miss Moyra Pim and Mr David Pollock.

Growing in stature

RAFT rapidly began to outgrow its hospital accommodation, and plans for a purpose-built building were drawn up. The charity was extremely fortunate to meet with the trustees handling the Estate of the late Mr Leopold Muller, and with their support the Leopold Muller Building was erected in 1993 and formally opened by the charity's Chief Patron, The Duchess of Kent. In 1994 Professor Scales retired from the directorship of RAFT's research and Professor Roy Sanders was appointed Director of Research. Professor Colin Green was also involved in RAFT and was instrumental in RAFT’s research; he left shortly after Professor Scales.

Into the future

We celebrated our 20th anniversary in 2008, by working on our vision for the next ten years. Today RAFT continues to pursue projects developing an artificial skin and is also working in skin cancer treatment, prevention and education.

We are currently looking forward to our 25th anniversary with the creation of a strategic plan of action of how to take us there.

 

Sir Robin Chicester-Clark

Michael Garston