I took a trip to Hampshire to meet the team at Wessex Urology Support Group (WUSG)the winners of the Ostomy Lifestyle Award 
for Best Local Support Group 2009, and was very impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the organisation.
WUSG offers help, advice and support to all Urinary Diversion Patients in the the Wessex Region,but they do this in in close partnership with statutory health services as well as forging collaborative partnerships. One such project is Macmillan Solutions,with ten WUSG volunteers becoming trained by Macmillan Cancer Support to increase the level of independence, choice and control for people affected by cancer locally.
Piloting this project is a great opportunity for a local support group to broaden it’s horizons, and to make sure it can assist people affected by stoma surgery wherever they might seek support. I am very pleased to have met them and look forward to hearing more about their work.
David Morris, Chair of WUSG said “All our members are very pleased with the award and feel honoured to have received recognition in the first year of these awards”.
Award criteria: A local-level support group that responds to the needs and interests of its members, reaches a diverse range of people and demonstrates good communication and structure within the group.
Judges comments: “Well structured, dynamic organisation with good integration between NHS and user groups”
Also shortlisted:
Devon Ileostomy Association
Red Lion Pouch Group
