The general term "haemophilia" describes a group of inherited blood disorders in which there is a lifelong defect in the clotting mechanism of the blood i.e. it takes longer for them to stop bleeding if injured. Haemophilia is quite rare with a higher incidence in males. Incidence is 1 in every 5,0000 to every 10,000 males being affected.

Most cuts and stratches do not pose any problems; they will respond to pressure on the area. The danger for someone with haemophilia is bleeding into the joints, muscles and soft tissues. This requires medical intervention in the form of the missing clotting factor (from the blood) being injected into their bloodstream. A person with haemophilia must have treatment as soon as a bleed starts, this prevents further bleeding and pain and reduces the likelihood of permanent damage to joints. Home treatment is preferable as the sooner treatment is received the less damage is sustained.

The society provides supports in the form of counselling, information, a drop in service, children's holidays, home-hospital visits and a 24-hour emergency service.