Living with a stoma is a big adjustment. Whether you have had a colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy, it is completely normal to feel overwhelmed at first. The good news is that you do not have to go through it alone. There is a wide network of stoma support groups, charities, and services across the UK - all there to help you feel less isolated and more confident as you adapt to life with a stoma.

This page brings together some of the most trusted stoma support organisations in the UK, alongside the support available directly through Medilink®. We hope it helps you find the right kind of help at the right time.

What support is available for people living with a stoma?

Support for ostomates comes in many different forms. Some people find it helpful to speak to others who have been through the same experience. Others want access to specialist nurses, practical advice, or simply a friendly community online. The organisations listed on this page offer a mix of all of these things.

As well as peer-to-peer support, many charities run helplines, local groups, information days, and online forums. Some also publish helpful guides covering topics such as travel, diet, work, and relationships - all areas that can feel uncertain when you are newly diagnosed or have recently had surgery.

If you are looking for broader guidance to help you adjust, our ostomy support and advice hub covers everything from dietary advice for ostomates to returning to work with a stoma. You can also read inspiring personal stories from our community on the My Medilink Journey page.

Are there stoma support groups near me?

The UK has several excellent national charities that support ostomates, many of which have local contacts, regional networks, or online communities. The organisations listed further down this page - including Colostomy UK, IA, and the Urostomy Association - can all help you find local support or connect with others in your area.

Many of these groups run events, awareness days, and informal meetups throughout the year. They also provide helplines where you can speak to a real person - often someone who lives with a stoma themselves - at no cost.

What support is available for children with a stoma?

Children and young people with a stoma or bladder diversion have specific needs. The Breakaway Foundation is a UK charity set up specifically to support families in this situation. They run activity weekends and information days so that children and parents can meet others who understand what they are going through. You can find their full details further down this page.

If you are ordering stoma products for your child through Medilink®, our guide to ordering for your child explains what you need to know about prescriptions, delivery, and getting the right supplies.

Can I get advice on potential problems with my stoma?

It is common to experience challenges such as skin irritation, leakage, or discomfort, particularly in the early weeks after surgery. Our potential issues page covers the most common problems and what you can do about them. You can also contact our clinical team directly for personalised advice, or reach out to one of the support organisations listed below.

You are not alone — and with the right support around you, most challenges can be managed.

Stoma support organisations in the UK

Below you will find contact details and a short description for each of the main UK stoma and ostomy support organisations. All helplines listed are free or low cost.

Medilink

Look out for open days and coffee mornings on our events page.

How can Medilink® help me as an ostomate?

Medilink® is a specialist home delivery service for stoma and continence products. We deliver your stoma supplies straight to your door - discreetly and on a schedule that suits you. Our team is made up of specialist nurses and trained advisors who understand the day-to-day challenges of living with a stoma.

We are not just a delivery service. Our clinical team are available in certain locals around the UK. They can offer product advice, help you get the right fit, and refer you to a stoma care nurse if needed. We also keep you up to date with events, open days, and coffee mornings where you can meet others in a similar situation.

If you are not already registered with Medilink®, you can find out more about how to register for our home delivery service. We currently work with patients across the UK and are available Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm, on Freephone 0800 626388.