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Shine a Light on Iron Deficiency

Helping women and girls reach their potential through better iron health.

Iron deficiency is one of the most common – and most overlooked – health issues affecting women and girls. It causes exhaustion, brain fog, low mood, poor concentration, and frequent illness. But it is preventable, treatable, and often missed.

The SHINE On Womens Health is here to change that.

About Shine

SHINE is the first and only organisation in the UK dedicated to iron deficiency in women.

We work to make sure every woman and girl is seen, heard, and supported — with earlier detection, better information, and equal access to care. Iron deficiency limits women’s energy, wellbeing, productivity, and potential.

SHINE brings together researchers, health professionals, educators, and policy leaders to create real change in women’s health.

Our four focus areas

1Awareness & Prevention

We shine a national spotlight on iron deficiency — helping more women recognise symptoms and get tested earlier.

Our work includes:

  • Public awareness campaigns
  • Guidance on symptoms and risks
  • Encouraging routine screening, especially for teenage girls and women of reproductive age.

Our goal: earlier detection, fewer missed diagnoses, healthier lives.

2Education & Training – The Iron Academy

Knowledge saves lives.

Our Iron Academy learning hub provides simple, trusted information for:

  • Women and families
  • Schools and community groups
  • Nurses, GPs, midwives and other health professionals.

We make it easy to understand iron deficiency, what to ask for, and how to get the right care.

3Research & Innovation

We support high-quality studies that improve the detection and treatment of iron deficiency.

Working with universities, hospitals, and community partners, SHINE helps:

  • Generate evidence on prevalence and impact
  • Improve testing pathways
  • Develop innovative tools for early diagnosis.

We’re committed to driving practical, real-world solutions.

4Advocacy & Policy

SHINE is a strong voice for women’s health.

We push for fair access, early detection, and iron health to be taken seriously at national level.

Our policy work includes:

  • Calling for a national screening programme for women
  • Ensuring iron deficiency is part of the Women’s Health Strategy
  • Working with Women’s Health Hubs, schools, NHS England and DHSC
  • Championing equality in women’s health and prevention.

Our aim: a future where no woman is held back by preventable ill-health.

Are you iron deficient

Do you have heavy menstrual bleeding? You may be at high risk of being iron deficient.

Find out more

Get involved

Support our work. Help women shine.

Your support helps the SHINE Foundation transform women’s lives by increasing awareness, early detection, and better care for iron deficiency. Every donation strengthens our research, advocacy, and education – empowering women and girls to thrive.

Give today and help us shine a light on women’s health.

Make a DonationContact us