The Colostomy Association is a UK registered charity representing the interests of people with a colostomy. Colostomy is not a subject that is openly discussed - hence there is a general lack of public knowledge on what it's like to have a stoma. We offer support, reassurance and practical information to anyone who may be about to have, or already has a colostomy. The Association provides assistance to those who are new to living with a colostomy as well as those who have been colostomates for many years. Appropriate support and advice is offered to families and carers both before and after surgery.

 We work with our staff, volunteers and health professionals, and aim to provide:

• Support and advice for colostomates, their families and their carers
• Email and 24hr telephone helpline
• Comprehensive advisory literature and quarterly magazine
• Visits for those who need it
• We really can make a difference - our findings show there are approximately 60,000 colostomates living in the UK and with over 6,400 permanent colostomy operations being performed each year - we need to be here for them.