STOURBRIDGE MP Suzanne Webb has become the new chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for a rare genetic disorder that causes physical and mental disabilities.

The Conservative MP has taken over after former chairman David Duguid had to step down following his appointment as a minister in the Scotland Office.

The APPG for 22q11 works to bring awareness and support to sufferers of the syndrome and works closely with Stourbridge based charity Max Appeal, founded by Julie Wootton, from Wollaston, in memory of her son Max who died from the condition which is also known as DiGeorge Syndrome.

Those who have 22q11 can often suffer from developmental delays, heart abnormalities, kidney problems, auto-immune disorders and skeletal problems.

It is believed to affect around 1 in 4,000, is caused by a small piece of genetic material that is missing from a person's DNA and there is no cure.

Suzanne said: “I am very pleased to be able to take over the leadership of this important APPG and I am particularly pleased I can work closely with Julie, who has done so much to raise awareness of this condition in memory of her son Max.

“Right now, there are many challenges families living with 22q11 are facing because of the pandemic. Issues including new-born screening, SEN education, mental health and transition to adult services, plus a lack of 22q11 specialist clinics for adults.”

Julie added: “22q11 affects thousands of children every year but is massively misdiagnosed. Too many children are being failed and we see parents becoming the ‘experts’. Early diagnosis is pivotal to how children adapt to adulthood and achieve good outcomes.

“We are really looking forward to working with Suzanne as the new chair of the All Parliamentary Group on 22q11 to build upon the success achieved by David Duguid.”