Welcome to the joint web site of the
National Genetics Reference Laboratories
based in
Manchester and Wessex (Salisbury & Southampton)
In 2002, National Genetics Reference Laboratories in Manchester & Wessex were established as an initiative by the Department of Health to support the UK genetic laboratory services. While based in England, the laboratories work closely with genetic service providers in all of the UK home countries.
The laboratories evolved from the Manchester and Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratories, which provide NHS diagnostic services for their local populations. The NGRLs are well placed to evaluate technologies and systems that are close to service or in service and assess their applicability to the National Health Service.
The specific remit of the laboratories includes:
- Horizon Scanning and Technology Assessment
- Developing new Quality Assessment Systems
- Developing reference and control reagents
- Developing information systems for genetics
- Providing advice to government and other bodies
This remit has been translated into complementary work programmes for the two laboratories. The laboratories work closely together and regularly consult with the service providers on their needs and encourage their feedback.
Heads of Laboratories:
Manchester
Mr Andrew Devereau
National Genetics Reference Laboratory (Manchester)
St Mary's Hospital
Hathersage Road
Manchester M13 0JH
Phone: 0161 276 8703
Fax: 0161 276 6606
andrew.devereau@cmmc.nhs.ukWessex
Prof Nick Cross
National Genetics Reference Laboratory (Wessex)
Salisbury District Hospital
Salisbury SP2 8BJ
Phone: 01722 429080
Fax: 01722 338095
n.c.p.cross@soton.ac.uk
NGRL Electronic Update Service
If you want to keep informed about the latest updates and events of the NGRLs, send an email to LISTSERV@LISTSERV.MANCHESTER.AC.UK quoting "subscribe ngrl" in the message body.
Confirmation of registration to the NGRL electronic update list will be send and unsubscribing from the list is possible at any time.White Paper Review
The 2003 White Paper "Our Inheritance, Our Future" set out a £50m three-year plan for implementation of genetic techniques to the benefit of NHS patients.
In 2006, a White Paper review is held of the progress made and to assess future need.
The response of the NGRLs to this consultation can be downloaded here.
