We’re proud to be working with the Royal College of Nursing (RCN)

12 August, 2025

We’re proud to be working with the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) on two important initiatives designed to break down some of the barriers that people living with a stoma can face.

In June, our Community Engagement Lead, Shauna, joined Stoma Care Nurse, Joan Garwood, and our volunteer, Linda Griffiths, at the RCN’s “Practical Updates on Long-Term Health Conditions” event. These sessions give nursing teams in independent health and social care settings access to practical, up-to-date learning that boosts their clinical knowledge, professional confidence, and – most importantly – the outcomes and experiences of the people they care for.

We know that nurses working in these settings often face challenges in accessing continuing professional development (CPD). Time pressures, funding issues, and a lack of tailored training can mean they miss out on vital updates, especially around supporting people with complex, long-term needs such as living with a stoma.

That’s why we were delighted to share our specialist knowledge – with Joan offering expert clinical insight, and Linda speaking powerfully from her lived experience as both a nurse and someone with a stoma. Her unique perspective resonated strongly with attendees. Here’s just some of the feedback we received: “Thank you for this informative topic and for Linda, who shared her story as both a nurse and a patient. Very powerful – Linda, you are an inspiration.”

“Thank you so much, we should never forget we’re dealing with human beings.” Linda also contributed to the RCN’s work on updating their Health Ability Passport – a valuable resource for nurses returning to work that records the reasonable adjustments a staff member with health or disability needs in the workplace.

Shauna from Colostomy UK said “At Colostomy UK, we’re here for anyone living with a stoma – to offer support, share experiences, and champion their voice. Working with the RCN on training like this means more nurses have the understanding and confidence to give people with a stoma the care and dignity they deserve. Together, we’re helping to remove barriers and show that life with a stoma can be active, fulfilling, and positive.”

If your organisation is interested in collaborating with Colostomy UK please email getinvolved@colostomyuk.org