Clinical Service

Stoma Care

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What we do

Our stoma service supports people who are undergoing bowel surgery, such as a colostomy, resulting in a stoma.

Our stoma nurses are here for you before and after your surgery. They will provide information and education on living with a stoma, fistula or internal ileo-anal pouch.

What to expect

While you recover in hospital, your stoma nurse will show you how to care for your stoma, including:

  • how to empty and change the bag

  • how to keep your stoma and surrounding skin clean and free from irritation

  • how to prevent infection.

They'll also explain the different types of equipment available and how to get new supplies.

Three months after your surgery, you will only need to attend an appointment once a year. This will be with your GP's stoma annual user review clinic (AUR). This means you receive care by our stoma nurses closer to home. Appointments will be sent to you by your GP.

Stoma supplies

Before you leave hospital, your stoma nurse will ensure you have 2-3 weeks' worth of stoma supplies to go home with. The stoma nurse will tell you how to re-order supplies via your GP surgery, as you will need a prescription from your GP each time. 

Please allow 10-14 days for the prescription to be processed, so you'll need to ensure you have sufficient stocks to last you during this time.

If you have any concerns or problems, please call us on 01233 616646.

Children with stomas

The Junior Ostomy Support Helpline (JOSH) is available for parents or carers of children with a bowel or bladder issue. Their specially selected team of dedicated parent volunteers provide much needed emotional support when it is needed. 

Call the 24 hour Junior Ostomy Support helpline on 0800 328 4257.

Where to find us

Our nurse-led Stoma Clinics are by appointment only. 

Please note you may attend the nearest, most convenient clinic, even if you have had surgery at another hospital in the Trust. 

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