NCL2012 is the 13th International Conference on Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (Batten Disease). An NCL conference of this type has been held approximately every other year on alternate sides of the Atlantic . This is the only forum that brings together those with interests in basic science and clinical care for this group of devastating diseases. We are adding a new dimension to the NCL2012 Scientific Conference, with our co-hosts the UK Batten Disease Family Association (BDFA), by bringing together Parent Organisations, professionals and affected families to a parallel two day conference. For the first time at an NCL meeting this will include combined sessions with the scientific conference.