Loneliness awareness week

15 June, 2020

Feelings of Isolation are not uncommon at some stage in the journey of many ostomates, and for some the current climate will only magnify this.

The face to face and peer to peer support that stoma support groups offer is of course not available at present, although it’s encouraging to see that some groups have started to meet by zoom.

More than ever though Colostomy UK are aware of the need for us to provide support in a variety of formats so we’re able to reach those that need us.

Our stoma helpline is available twenty four hours a day. On the other end of the line you’ll find one of our volunteers, who are there to listen and where needed provide support and guidance based on their own experiences of living with a stoma. They are also here if you just want a chat. We want to do all we can to combat loneliness during the lockdown, so don’t hesitate to phone! Please call us on 0800 328 4257.

Our newly launched live chat service is available from 9am to 5pm through our website and offers practical and emotional support and guidance.

Joining our private Facebook group gives you access to a community of nearly 9,000 ostomates. There’s bound to be someone who will understand what you’re going through.

Tidings is our quarterly support magazine. Each issue ostomates share their own stories of living with a stoma. You can download all our back issues here

We’re not able to deliver our usual Active Ostomates sessions in a community setting at the moment however our recently launched Active Ostomates at Home initiative provides a number of virtual activities including Mindfulness and Art, that help people to stay connected as well as stimulating them mentally and physically.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us by email as well at info@colostomyuk.org. We’re here when you need us.