Peter Waddup, CEO - The Leprosy Mission Great Britain

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Anyone who knows me, knows that India is one of my favourite countries. From the beautiful green mountains of the north to the rugged hot coastline of the south, India’s beauty takes some beating. I’m also known for my love of the hottest Indian chillis! But actually, the thing I love most about India is the people. The warmth and generosity of the people I have come to know is something really special. And of course, that is also true of my British Indian friends and connections.

So, I’m so delighted to be part of India Week, which begins in London on Wednesday! A week when movers and shakers from the British Asian community work to forge a stronger economic relationship between the UK and India. I’m looking forward to being inspired by the enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit of the speakers and attendees.

Thank you to the organisers The Economic Policy Group, for making The Leprosy Mission charity partner. This gives us a wonderful opportunity to share the plight of people affected by leprosy with attendees.

India is the country where The Leprosy Mission's work began 150 years ago. It is also the country that is home to over 60% of the world's leprosy cases today. Sadly, being ostracised by their family and communities is a reality for too many. Yet because leprosy affects the poorest of the poor, there are so many in India, let alone here in the UK, who still don't know that leprosy even exists.

Not only does leprosy exist in India but it is rife! Research points to there being two million people living with untreated leprosy in India. Every one of these two million people desperately needs the cure. And if we can act quickly, many will be spared a lifetime of disability. The great news is that is only costs £24 to cure someone. It’s such a small sum for such massive transformation.

If you’re in London next Fri 5th and Sat 6th, why not come along to Royal Lancaster Hotel, Lancaster Terrace, W2 2TY, where we’ll have a stand at the India Week Shopping Festival. There will be over 50 stalls with fashion, jewellery and lifestyle and more. We’d love to say hello!