Colostomy UK supports people with stomas (‘ostomates’) across the UK. Active Ostomates is our free activity and wellbeing programme for people who've had life-changing stoma surgery. Our online 8-week course helps people rebuild confidence, reduce isolation and improve physical and mental wellbeing.
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Beneficiaries
Over 200,000 people in the UK have a stoma, for reasons such as cancer, Crohn’s, childbirth & traumatic injury. Our 2024 survey found 92% face ongoing challenges (e.g. pain, leaks, hernias & fatigue) making exercise & everyday activity daunting. Isolation & poor mental wellbeing are all too common, with 34% reporting worsening mental health. Yet, with an overstretched NHS, post-surgical support is limited & many ostomates withdraw from activity altogether, harming recovery & long-term health.
We will deliver 96 free online Active Ostomates sessions over 12 months, supporting at least 350 people with stomas across the UK. Through structured eight-week programmes in Yoga, Chair Yoga, Pilates and Mindfulness, qualified instructors will provide safe, stoma-informed guidance tailored to post-surgical needs. Online delivery removes barriers of cost, travel and confidence, enabling people to take part from home while connecting with others who share similar lived experience.
