What the IBS Network can do for you

The IBS Network Mission Statement

To inform, support and educate those with IBS, their families and carers. To improve the quality of life of those with IBS and to raise public awareness of IBS and the issues surrounding this condition.

IBS is not life threatening but we know that it can certainly threaten your quality of life. Thousands of fellow sufferers have benefited

from contact with the IBS Network - a charitable organisation dedicated to helping people. So many people with IBS feel isolated and embarrassed by the condition, confused and uncertain about causes and treatments and are at a loss to see a way forward.

In this section

Annual Membership cost

The IBS Network works on your behalf, in your interests and for your benefit. As a charitable organisation we cannot do this without the generous support of our members. All we ask therefore is a donation of £15 - that's only £1.25 per month- and in return we will provide you with all the benefits listed:

Gut Reaction
Do you sometimes feel you're the only one who feels like you do?
Would you like to know what's helped other sufferers ?
Would you like to keep up-to-date with the latest ideas and research into IBS ?
Gut Reaction comes out four times a year. It covers a wide variety of topics of interest to people with IBS - sufferers' own experiences, the latest research into IBS, writings by gastroenterologists, diet advice, alternative medicine, book reviews, letters, penpal column. It is one of the best ways you can inform yourself about IBS as well as providing contact with others.

Research - Appeals to volunteers for research appear regularly in Gut Reaction

Self Help Groups - We co ordinate local self-help groups. You will be sent a list of self-help groups when you join. We are sorry that the IBS Network is not able to offer overseas members IBS Network-run self-help groups. If no group exists in your area you may like to start one - we can offer practical support and advice.

Befrienders - We run a befriender system whereby people who are finding it difficult to cope are put in touch with members who can give them some support. We maintain a list of telephone contacts who are willing to help fellow sufferers.

Can't Wait Card - All members receive a 'Can't Wait' card which you can show to request the use of toilets in shops etc. This can be of particular value when travelling or in a strange town.

Media List - Members are encouraged to volunteer to be included on the Media List and give interviews to the Press/Radio and TV if they wish.

Reviewer List - Members are encouraged to review books/tapes/videos/CD Roms. Reviews are published in Gut Reaction.

Publications - Members and non members are welcome to buy our factsheets and backcopies of Gut Reaction.

Take control today. There is no need to suffer alone and in silence. Make your voice heard and discover a new future.

For Further Information contact:

IBS Network,
Northern General Hospital,
Sheffield,
S5 7AU

Tel: 0114 2611531 (Answerphone)

www.ibsnetwork.org.uk

IBS Helpline: 01543 492 192

Monday to Friday 6pm to 8pm
Staffed by nurses specialising in IBS

We are indebited to the IBS Network for their help in compiling this section.