Our aim is to increase public awareness of hydrocephalus and spina bifida and to promote research across the diverse fields of study relevant to these conditions, with the ultimate goal of alleviating, managing and preventing the conditions. We recognize that hydrocephalus can affect people of any age, and our research interests reflect this, ranging from fetal imaging, termination of pregnancy and neonatology to normal pressure hydrocephalus in the older population. We also recognize that, while much can be done to reduce the risk of spina bifida, more research is needed on biochemical and genetic aspects of prevention, and existing strategies need to be implemented more widely. The needs of people of all ages with spina bifida need to be met, and our interests range from special needs education through social and psychological aspects to nursing, urological, neurological, orthopaedic and neurosurgical approaches. Scientific, ethical and clinical aspects are covered. The Society, founded in 1957, is made up of members from 30 countries worldwide and is a registered charity in the UK.