News / UWE Bristol
Uni researchers launch ‘first-of-its-kind’ support hub for people with visible differences
An online platform offering psychological support for people with visible differences has been launched by researchers at the UWE Bristol.
The Visible Difference Support Hub, the first of its kind in the UK, aims to support the estimated 1.1 million people living with conditions that affect appearance, such as burns, scarring, craniofacial differences, alopecia, eczema and limb loss.
The free website was developed by experts at UWE Bristol’s Centre for Appearance Research (CAR), in collaboration with 12 national charities and healthcare professionals.
is needed now More than ever
It brings together 13 rigorously tested resources to help individuals and their families navigate challenges such as bullying, anxiety, social stigma and self-consciousness.
An online platform offering psychological support for people with visible differences has been launched by researchers at the UWE Bristol
The support tools, based on robust psychological research and lived experience, include videos, podcasts, booklets, an e-book, and even a board game—designed to be practical, accessible, and available at any time of day.
“The psychological and social impact of a visible difference can be substantial,” said professor Diana Harcourt, appearance and health psychology lead at CAR.
“Much of the support currently available comes from amazing but overstretched NHS teams and charities. This hub fills that gap with scientifically backed, user-tested resources that people can access immediately—whether they’re waiting to see a psychologist, managing day-to-day worries, or just looking for strategies to cope.”
Dr Maia Thornton, senior research fellow at CAR, added: “Imagine a parent lying awake at night, worried about their child’s visible difference. They may not be able to speak to someone immediately—but now they can go online and find stories from people with similar experiences, or download practical guides to help them support their child and themselves.”
The hub is not just for individuals, it is also intended as a resource for teachers, health professionals, and anyone seeking to better understand or support those with appearance-related challenges.
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While most resources are applicable to any visible difference, some are tailored to specific conditions like burns or eczema.
Hannah Cree from the charity Caring Matters Now, one of the partners involved in the project, praised the initiative: “Finally, there is a place that brings together trusted, research-based resources under one roof. It’s accessible, inclusive, and much-needed.”
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The launch marks a significant step forward in addressing the mental and emotional needs of people with visible differences in a society that can often be appearance-focused. The team behind the hub say more resources will be added in the coming months, helping to extend the platform’s impact even further.
For more information and to access the resources, visit www.visibledifferencesupporthub.com
All photos: UWE Bristol
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