How we are organised

The organisational structure of the Colostomy Association is made up of six Trustees, an Office Manager and Staff who are fully trained and responsible for the administration of the Association. We also have a number of highly valued volunteers who give us help and support.

Our head office is based in Reading, Berkshire and our office hours are from 9am-5pm Mondays to Fridays. The Helpline is available 24/7 and we aim to have a colostomate online able to listen and discuss your concerns.

Covering the country are over seventy trained and experienced contact volunteers who are colostomates, our contact volunteers are dedicated individuals who bring a human touch, to what can sometimes be a delicate and emotional time. Our contact volunteers are often asked to visit patients before their colostomy surgery, and afterwards in hospital, usually at the request of the stoma nurse. Home visits by our contact volunteers can also be arranged at your request.

We have a range of advisory literature, written by colostomates and nursing professionals, readily available on request. Plus our quarterly magazine 'Tidings".

We attend organised stoma care nurses 'open days', where you can come and learn more about your colostomy, in a friendly atmosphere, and discuss any problems you may have or just enjoy the company. We give these events our full support.

The Colostomy Association also attends manufacturers' and suppliers', open days and exhibitions, where you can come along and see what stoma bags, assessories and services are available. It's a real opportunity to meet and share experiences with other colostomates. Be sure to visit our stand - we would love to meet you.