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Welcome to your July update from Colostomy UK.

In this issue we take a look at your rights as someone living With a stoma, and focus on the NHS, Transport, returning to work, and the Blue Badge scheme.

Don't forget that we're here for you if you need us. Visit our support page for details of all the ways you can get in touch, and how we can help.
Your rights as an NHS patient

You deserve a standard of care that fits your needs and respects what matters to you. This guide breaks down your rights as an NHS patient in England when it comes to intimate health care.

You can also access similar information for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Sometimes there will be choices to be made about your care and the way forward should be a joint decision between you and a Health Care professional. This flyer can help you ask the right questions so you have all the information you need to make decisions about the care you receive.

 

One piece closed bags for Colostomies late stage assessment. 

Colostomy UK have been supporting The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to produce Late-stage assessment (LSA) guidance on One-piece closed bags for colostomies.

While the guidelines refer specifically to people who use Closed Colostomy bags we believe that the considerations for health care professionals and patients provide a sound basis for joint decision making and improved patient choice for everyone living with a stoma, and should be considered best practise by health care professionals regardless of which type of stoma they have, and bag they use.

Please visit our website for more details
Jet Set and Donate!

We’re the critical friend of airport teams ensuring that dignity, respect, and understanding are at the heart of every journey for people living with a stoma and other hidden conditions. There is still so much to do, and we would not be able to do this without YOUR support.

Jet, Set and Donate today to support our work further, continuing to break down barriers and smash the stigma around accessible travel for all living with a stoma. https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/28476
Transport services for people with a disability

Having a stoma should not prevent you from travelling at home or abroad, whether it's for a holiday or work. The important thing is to plan ahead and be prepared. Our website has lots of useful guidance and you can also the Government web page on Transport services for disabled people

Returning to work after  stoma surgery

For many people, returning to work after stoma surgery is an important milestone, signifying a welcome return to ‘normality’. It also serves as a powerful reminder of just how far one has come since those early post-op days.

However, it can also be a source of anxiety. Visit our website for lots of hints & Tips, and a really useful article from Irwin Mitchell on your rights when returning  to work.
Eligibility for a Blue Badge

The Blue Badge scheme is a national parking permit for people with disabilities or health conditions, allowing them to park closer to their destination. It's managed by local authorities who assess applications and issue the badges. Eligibility is based on specific criteria related to mobility and disability, and the badge provides parking concessions both on and off-street. 

Not everyone with a stoma is eligible for a Blue Badge, and this leaflet explains how it works and who might be eligible. You can make an application here