Connections

Connections is a relationship support programme designed by relationship therapist, Charlene Douglas, in partnership with our clinical nursing team

Wherever you are in your stoma journey, we’d like to support you in finding ways to open up communication and strengthen your bond with others.

In this video, Charlene Douglas introduces Connections and explains how the programme can support you to reconnect with yourself and loved ones.

Get your free Connections toolkit

We know that adjusting to life after a stoma operation and getting used to your post-op body can be tough. You might not feel able to express how you’re feeling with family and friends as you adapt to your body and lifestyle changes.

We spoke to just under 800 ostomates about their relationships post-surgery, and many described a feeling of loneliness, isolation, and not knowing how to ask for help or find the support they needed.

The support of others can be a huge comfort during this time, helping you navigate concerns about your post-op body, and giving you the strength and confidence to maintain healthy relationships.

With this in mind, our clinical nursing team has worked together with relationship therapist Charlene Douglas, to create a practical and useful toolkit that will help form and strengthen these important connections.

Access the Connections booklet and videos

The Connections booklet, available in print, and via download, guides you through activities designed to support you in reconnecting with yourself, your body, and also your partner, family, and friends.

The accompanying video, which you can view in full, or in chapters, talks you through some of the activities in the booklet, and features ostomate Rachel and her husband Stuart; an inspiring couple who openly share the challenges they’ve faced throughout Rachel’s stoma journey, and how they navigated these challenges, from pre-op through to the present day.

Sign up to receive your free Connections Relationship Support Toolkit