10/09/2026
Wow! Thank you to the Mayor of Swindon and Councillor Jane for visiting us 💜
It was a pleasure to visit Ostomy Mates at the Community Room kindly provided by Tesco Extra at Ocotal Way, accompanied by my Consort, Parish Councillor Jane Milner-Barry.
What an incredible and inspiring group of people they are. It was fascinating to hear their individual experiences of living with an ostomy or colostomy, often following cancer treatment or as a result of Crohn’s Disease.
The group provides invaluable support to people adjusting to both the physical and psychological challenges of living with a stoma. Some members have lived with their stomas for many decades, while others are only just beginning their journey.
I was also very interested to see the display of equipment used from the 1990s through to today, demonstrating just how much stoma care has advanced over the years.
For anyone awaiting this type of surgery, or who has recently undergone the procedure, I would strongly recommend connecting with Ostomy Mates. Their wealth of personal experience, understanding and support can make such a difference.
One of the important things I took away from my visit was how small, practical changes can make public facilities much more accessible. For example, when we refurbish public toilets in our parks, something as simple as providing a shelf for stoma care equipment could make a real difference.
I have asked the group to provide a summary of these relatively simple requirements so that I can share them with other parishes and organisations.
Thank you to Amy for inviting me and to all the members of Ostomy Mates for such an informative and inspiring visit.
