Community and Health Support Group in New Forest, Bournemouth and Poole
Jess Burrows from ServiceMaster Clean New Forest, Bournemouth and Poole talks providing support in the community through a Stoma Support Group.
Jess Burrows from ServiceMaster Clean New Forest, Bournemouth and Poole is providing care in the local community after experiencing health difficulties and complications in recent years.
In 2023, Jess had major surgery for Ulcerative Colitis, after battling the disease for twelve years.
This has changed her life in ways she hadn’t imagined, including having a stoma.
“After my surgery, I was in a dark place and felt incredibly alone,” she says.
“I would have loved to have had someone to talk to, someone who truly understood what I was going through.”
Now, Jess wants to be there for others who have had similar experiences and let them know that support is out there.
Stoma Support Group
That’s why, in late 2024, Jess founded a support group for people living with stomas to come together and support each other, whether they have a stoma, live with or care for someone who does or simply wants to learn more.
“No one should feel alone in their journey, and I’m here to help others find the understanding and connection they need and to know that help and support are out there,” she says.
Jess’ goal for the group is to provide crucial support to those who can benefit from the emotional reassurance and a sense of community it provides.
“Having someone who understands what you’re going through can make you feel less isolated. It really helps to share experiences, ask questions, and receive advice from those who have been through similar situations,” Jess says.
“Knowing you’re not alone can make a significant difference in building confidence and coping with the physical and emotional adjustments that come with having a stoma.”
This is evidenced by how the group has been received in the community.
“The feedback from the group has been amazing so far,” Jess says.
“I’ve been surprised by how many people wanted to attend and reached out—it’s clear they were all in need of support.”
“It means so much to me to have been able to set up this support group. Not only has it comforted and reassured me, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding to bring people together who can share and support one another.”
Jess’ Aspirations for the group
Moving forward, Jess plans to invite various speakers to discuss important topics like stoma accessories, mental health, diet, and more—essentially covering all aspects of living with a stoma.
Her goal is to provide a comprehensive support system where everyone feels informed, understood, and empowered on their journey to raise as much awareness as possible about the group and let people know that support is available locally.
For example, Jess says she wishes people knew that stomas are very common, with over 200,000 people in the UK living with one.
“They save lives,” she says. “My stoma saved mine.”
The group meets at a local village hall every sixth Saturday. You can find out more on Jess’ Instagram (@Stomuchlove) or by contacting Colostomy UK – as Jess is listed as a support group leader for the area.
Fundraising
Alongside her support group, Jess and her daughter Chloe, who is also part of the team at ServiceMaster Clean New Forest, Bournemouth and Poole, are also taking part in the Jump For a Nurse campaign to help support the healthcare and hospice workers in the local community and raising money for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care.
The initiative pairs each diver with a nurse for whom they fundraise.
Jess and Chloe will each jump with a nurse from 10,000ft to raise money, with the pair hoping to raise £1,000 via their JustGiving page.
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