Feb
09
2026

Victoria Hedley explains the role of National Mirror Groups in the rare disease research ecosystem

Victoria has spent the past 15 years contributing to the development of rare disease (RD) policies and policy‑related outputs, and is a founder and co‑lead of the Newcastle Centre for Rare Disease. Her current work includes leading activities within the European RD Research Alliance (ERDERA) to establish and mobilise National Mirror Groups for rare diseases; serving as co‑lead for the Coordinating Hub of the Rare Disease Research UK platform; and providing Newcastle University leadership for the Work Package on Impact, Regulation, and International Engagement within the LifeArc Centre for Acceleration of Rare Disease Trials.

In this video, Victoria Hedley explains the role of National Mirror Groups in the rare disease research ecosystem.

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European Parliament research service assessment, published in February 2026, identifies 31 measures that could form an EU rare disease action plan, highlighting European Reference Networks and cross-border collaboration including ERDERA as drivers of EU added value.
This study investigates possible measures that could be taken at EU level to address these challenges. It finds significant European added value in harmonising coordination and access across the 27 Member States, mainly in terms of improved diagnostic tools and availability of medical treatment, better health outcomes, particularly lower infant mortality, and improved well-being of family members and caregivers.