About us

Heart Research UK was founded by a working heart surgeon, Mr Watson, in 1967. At the time cardiac surgery carried serious risks, the mortality rate was high and little heart research was being done in the UK. Mr Watson, now retired, but still a Trustee of the charity, realised that patients were dying unnecessarily because of the lack of research in heart disease, especially surgical techniques. It was also particularly difficult for surgeons to obtain grants for the research necessary to reduce the risk of operations. Now, almost 45 years later, Heart Research UK is a visionary charity that leads the way funding ground breaking, innovative medical research projects at the cutting edge of science into the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease. There is a strong emphasis on supporting clinical and surgical projects and young researchers on their first steps into research. The charity also encourages and supports original healthy lifestyle initiatives that explore novel ways of preventing heart disease in all sectors of the community, helping people to live healthier, happier, longer lives.