Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation will merge after the final step in the formal process has been completed.

Both organisations announced their intention to merge in November ahead of a vote by AUK’s members at a general meeting on 2 December and a meeting of the BLF’s board of trustees on Monday.

The organisations have said the move aims to strengthen the existing collaboration between the two charities and will save a ‘significant amount of money’ in running costs.

Completion of the merger is expected to release up to £2m each year to fund research and support services for asthma and lung disease.

Commenting on the merger, Asthma UK CEO, Kay Boycott said: “This marks the start of a new era, which promises to bring significant benefits to people affected by asthma and other lung diseases. Bringing together our joint vision and strategy will allow us to make even more impact, with more money to spend on ground-breaking research and support.

“Our new organisation will combine the energy and passion of the UK’s top respiratory health charities, creating a powerful voice for change.

“It is an absolute privilege to be the first chief executive of the new organisation leading the start up of this innovative new venture.”

Both charities’ core activities – research programmes, campaigning, nurse helplines, and websites – will continue as normal.

Leading experts in asthma and lung health back the proposed merger, claiming it will bring ‘real benefits to patients now and in years to come’.

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