The Williams Syndrome Foundation was formed as a Registered Charity in 1980, with the aims of promoting research and providing help and support for families who are affected by Williams Syndrome. The Foundation acts as an information and advisory service and keeps parents in touch through magazines, events and a nationwide regional network, as well as funding holidays for WS people every year. It also keeps a register of all known WS cases and provides access to professionals to promote research to improve the lives of the WS population. The Foundation is run for families by families and is completely reliant on fundraising and donations.