Find A Support Group
Please note: Due to COVID-19, the situation for face to face support group meetings is continually evolving.
Many groups have now restarted face to face support group meetings, whilst other groups still offer virtual meetings or the option of either turning up in person or virtually.
Please contact the groups directly to get the most up to date information. If you have trouble reaching your local group, get in touch with us at info@actionbladdercanceruk.org for assistance. We shall add dates of face to face meetings as we receive them.
If you wish to set up a local bladder cancer support group - whether you are a health professional or patient - ABC UK can help, so please do get in touch with us.
ABC UK continues to provide direct patient support by telephone or email.
email: info@actionbladdercanceruk.org
Telephone: 0300 302 0085
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Joining a bladder cancer patient support group can give you the opportunity to talk to other patients who have already experienced a treatment or operation that you are about to have. They can understand what you are going through and tell you how they coped. The simple act of sharing can give you a feeling of empowerment and confidence that can help you overcome that initial sense of perhaps feeling scared and not knowing what to do. These groups are often a great support for your partners and families too. Many groups will also have speakers attending meetings, often medical professionals, giving the opportunity to ask questions.
If you are involved in a regional support group and would like your group to be listed here, please send details about your group to groups@actionbladdercanceruk.org
Find your local support group
You can look at our full listing of support groups in the UK or search for your nearest bladder cancer support group here by postcode
We try to keep this list as up to date as possible, but you may wish to check with the group before attending - contact details for each group are given below.
BLADDER CANCER PATIENT SUPPORT GROUPS
This list is updated regularly. Please let us know if any of this information has changed. If you would like your support group listed, please let us know on groups@actionbladdercancer.org
A new Bladder Cancer support group is now set up at North Devon District Hospital in Barnstaple. This group is for any patient who has received a Bladder Cancer diagnosis and their partner/carer and families. Everyone is welcome, whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with bladder cancer for a while.There is no charge and refreshments will be provided.
We hold our meetings on third Thursdays every two months from 2:00 to 4:30pm.
Meeting dates 2023: TBA
Venue: Health and Wellbeing Centre, North Devon District Hospital, Barnstaple, EX314JB
Contact: Ansu Manoj, Urology CNS Team Leader, Seamoor Unit Corridor, North Devon District Hospital
Email: a.manoj1@nhs.net
Telephone: 01271 311877
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Birmingham and Solihull
Action Bladder Cancer UK are currently working on a new group in the Birmingham/Solihull area - watch this space for details.
Bournemouth - Bladder Cancer Support Group
There used to be a group in this area that they are hoping to reinstate. We will keep you updated and please do get in touch if you would like a group in this area.
Bristol (Southmead) - Bristol Bladder Cancer Support Group
A Bladder Cancer support group set up to support patients (and their carers/partners) who have received a Bladder Cancer diagnosis. All are welcome to attend. Group meetings will be attended by a Urology/Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist from Southmead Hospital. Regular talks are also given by medical professionals or patients on varied subjects related to bladder cancer as well as more general topics of interest.
The group meets at The Macmillan Centre, The Cherry Tree Room, Southmead Hospital, Southmead Road, Bristol, BS10 5NB. We meet on selected Thursday evenings from 7.00pm until approx 8.00pm.
2023 meeting dates: 25th May, 7th September, 7th December
Contact: southmeadchair@wessexbcs.org.uk or southmeadcns@wessexbcs.org.uk
Phone: 01174 140512
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Brighton - Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals Bladder Cancer Support Group
We are a support group for patients, partners and anyone affected by bladder cancer. We meet every 2 months, details of our forthcoming meetings are currently on our web site.
2023 meeting dates:10th May, 12th July, 13th September, 8th November
Time: 6:45pm for 7:00pm until 8:00pm.
Meeting venue: Reception area, Macmillan Horizon Centre, Bristol Gate, Brighton, BN22 5BD
Email: admin@beatbladdercancertogether.co.uk
Website: http://www.beatbladdercancertogether.co.uk/
Burton - Burton Bladder Cancer Patient Support Group
This group aims to provide information, advice and support to those affected by bladder cancer, including patients, partners, carers, family and friends.
Group meetings will always be attended by a Urology Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Macmillan Care Navigator from Queens Burton District Hospital.
2023 meeting dates: 20th April, 15th June, 10th August, 12th October, 7th December
Time: TBC
Venue:
If you need any further information please contact the Urology Department on 01283 894600 ext 6203
Phone: 01283 894600 ext 6203
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Croydon Bladder Cancer Support Group
There used to be a group in this area that they are hoping to reinstate. We will keep you updated and please do get in touch if you would like a group in this area.
Huddersfield and Halifax - Calderdale & Huddersfield Bladder Cancer Support Group
Are you or your husband/wife/partner affected by Bladder Cancer? Would you be interested in joining a group of like-minded people who meet to discuss the issues surrounding Bladder Cancer?
This group has been set up in conjunction with Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust and the charity Action Bladder Cancer UK. It is offered to everybody living in the Huddersfield/Halifax areas.
2023 meeting dates: This group has now resumed face to face meetings - new dates to be advised.
Time: TBC
Venue: Briar Court Hotel, Halifax Road, Birchencliffe, Huddersfield HD3 3NT
If you need any further information please contact Urology Specialist nurses: Miriam Slade or Shawna Doyle
Phone: 01484 355269
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Coventry - University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire Bladder Cancer Support Group
There was a group running in Coventry, however, it is not running at the moment. Please let us know if you are interested in a group in this area.
Derby - Derby Bladder Cancer Support Group
This group has been set up in conjunction with Royal Derby Hospital and the charity Action Bladder Cancer UK. Meetings are on the last Thursday of the month and refreshments are provided.
2023 meeting dates: 27th April, 25th May, 29th June, 27th July, 28th September, 26th October, 30th November
Time: 11am til 12.30pm.
Venue: Royal Derby Hospital, Uttoxeter Road, DE22 3NE
If you need any further information please contact the Derby Urology Oncology Specialist Nurse Team on 01332 789164
Phone: 01332 789164
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Dudley - Black Country Bladder Cancer Support Group.
There was a group running in Dudley, however, it is not running at the moment. Please let us know if you are interested in a group in this area.
Hereford Bladder Cancer Patient Support Group
There was a group running in Hereford, however, it is not running at the moment. Please let us know if you are interested in a group in this area.
Kent - Kent and Canterbury Bladder Cancer Patient Support Group
There was a group running in Kent, however, it is not running at the moment. Please let us know if you are interested in a group in this area.
Leeds - St. James' University Hospital Bladder Cancer Support Group
There was a group running in Leeds, however, it is not running at the moment. Please let us know if you are interested in a group in this area.
Leicester - Leicestershire and Rutland Bladder Cancer Support Group
This group is for those who require, or have had, treatment for bladder cancer and their partners/loved ones. It will provide an opportunity to meet up with others who are facing, or have already experienced, similar challenges.
Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of every month.
2023 meeting dates: 19th April, 17th May, 21st June, 19th July, 16th August, 20th September, 18th October, 15th November, no December meeting.
Timings: Meetings are at 6:00pm
The Venue: The Birstall Golf Club, Station Rd, Birstall, LE4 3BB
Contact: Suzanne Woodford - Patient Representative
Telephone: 07976 260115
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Lincoln - Lincoln, Louth, Boston and Grantham Bladder Cancer Support Group
The group aims to provide help and support for all patients and the relatives/carers of people diagnosed with bladder cancer. We also provide a buddy scheme putting patients directly into contact with each other. We have been running successfully since 2012.
We meet 4 times a year in different locations around the county (Lincoln, Louth, Boston, Grantham)
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Venue: TBA
Contact: Laura Crowson CNS
Telephone number: 01522 573411
London - Charing Cross Hospital Bladder Cancer Support Group
This group provides an opportunity to meet other people with a bladder cancer diagnosis who may be in a similar situation to you, to share experiences and to support each other.
The group is facilitated by a Cancer Support Specialist from Maggie's and a Clinical Nurse Specialist from Charing Cross Hospital.
If you are interested in joining this group, please call Maggie's West London on 020 7386 1750, email the centre at london@maggies.org or drop into the centre between 9 and 5 Monday to Friday.
Dates of meeting: Meetings are from 2 until 3pm on the 4th Wednesday of every month at Maggie's West London.
Meeting venue: The Maggie's Centre at Charing Cross Hospital, Fulham Palace Road, Hammersmith, W6 8RF.
Telephone Number: 020 7386 1750
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
London - Guy's and St Thomas' Bladder Cancer Support Group
We are a support group for those who have been treated for (or diagnosed with) bladder cancer at Guy's and St Thomas'. Their partners, carers or anyone else affected by their illness are also welcome. There is also an option to attend virtually via Zoom.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Contact: Suzanne Amery
Venue: TBA
Phone: 0207 188 7636
Email: suzanne.amery@gstt.nhs.uk or bladderCNS@gstt.nhs.uk
London - UCLH Bladder Cancer Support Group
The UCLH Bladder Cancer Support Group is a monthly support group for anyone affected by bladder cancer, including family, carers and friends. It provides a safe space to talk to others, share experiences or simply listen. The group is facilitated by a support and information specialist and a clinical nurse specialist.
The group meets every third Thursday of the month from 12pm to 1.30pm (but not in December.)
You can access the meetings in person or virtually, via Zoom.
2023 meeting dates: 20th April, 18th May, 15th June, 20th July, 17th August, 21st September, 19th October, 16th November
Venue: UCH Macmillan Cancer Centre, Huntley Street, WC1E 6AG
To book your place, or for more information, email: uclh.wellbeing@nhs.net. Please include your full name, hospital number and the group you'd like to join in your email.
Alternatively, please call 020 3447 3816 for more information.
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
London - Whipps Cross University Hospital
A new group will be opening in London - Whipps Cross University Hospital shortly. Details soon.
Medway Group (North Kent)
Our mission is: To offer support with diagnosis and treatments to both patients and family members. To be able to share experiences in an informal setting. To inspire and empower people affected by cancer.
Our vision: To provide additional support to every patient to enable them to make better informed decisions.
2023 meeting dates: 4th April, 6th June, 6th September (AGM), 7th November, 5th December (Christmas Social)
Venue: Large Meeting Room, Gillingham Golf Club,Woodlands Rd, Gillingham ME7 2AP
Time: 7 pm start
Contact: John Deadman
Email: j.deadman48@hotmail.com
Telephone Number: 01634 865495
Website: https://urologysupportwestkent.co.uk/about.html
Newcastle - Bladder Cancer Support Group, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle
Have you been given a diagnosis of bladder cancer or are you the carer/loved one of someone who has? Would you like to learn more about your diagnosis and all the treatment options available? No matter where you are in your journey do not feel alone! This group has been pioneered by our surgeons, nurse specialists and patients to give information and support to all bladder cancer patients and their carers. Whether you have just received your diagnosis or have already received treatment, please get in touch. Share your experiences with other people who have been in your situation. Help somebody else get through the things you struggled with. Hear speakers on the most up to date and advanced treatment options.
We usually meet every two months between 1:00pm and 2:30pm.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Contact: Laura Noble, Uro-oncology Nurse Specialist
Telephone: 0191 213 7661
E-Mail: Laura.Noble@nuth.nhs.uk
Venue: Maggie's Centre, Freeman Hospital, Melville Grove, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7NU
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Oxford - Churchill Hospital Oxford Bladder Cancer Support Group
Have you or a partner/friend been diagnosed with Bladder Cancer? You are not alone. Come and join this new support group for patients and their loved ones/carers. We are here to help and support each other through the journey. Support provided includes the opportunity to talk to other members about their treatments and experiences. There will be specialists and visiting guest speakers who can offer their expertise and general advice.
Meetings are held on the first Mondays every two months from 1:00 - 3:00pm
2023 meeting dates: Monday 12 September, Monday 13 November (Both 1-3pm)
Meeting venue: Maggie's Centre, Churchill Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LE
Contact: Kerena Le Monnier, Urology Oncology Specialist Nurse
Phone: 01865 572374
Admission: Is free and refreshments will be provided.
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Plymouth - Bladder and Kidney Cancer Support Group
Established in late 2016, the group meets monthly. Since lockdown this has been in various venues and are often lunch followed by a walk if the weather is fine. Please look at our website for details of upcoming meetings.
This support group works alongside the charity Action Bladder Cancer for people living with bladder or kidney cancer. The group provides the opportunity to come and meet other people to compare notes and share experiences. It offers social and emotional support including social outings and walks. People are advised to contact the group organiser for more information. There is also the Action Bladder Cancer helpline on 0300 302 0085.
If you want to get in touch with members of the group before, or instead of, coming to meetings, send a message to bcsg.derriford@virginmedia.com and one of us will get back to you.
The oncology clinical nurse specialists in the Urology Department at Derriford Hospital can also give you our details.
Meetings dates: Please see our website.
Contact Email: bcsg.derriford@virginmedia.com
Website: http://bcsg.derriford.mt-soft.net/
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Portsmouth
There is no support group but there are patient advocates who support newly diagnosed patients.
Contact: Emma Greaves, Urology Outpatients, Queen Alexandra Hospital
Email: emma.greaves@porthosp.nhs.uk
Telephone Number: 023 9228 6989
Reading Bladder Cancer Support Group Trust
The group is for those who require, or have had, treatment for bladder cancer and their partners. It provides an opportunity to meet up with others who are facing, or have already experienced, similar challenges. Guest speakers, mainly from within the medical world, speak to the group at most of our meetings giving group members the opportunity to ask questions. We usually meet at 1:00pm on the fourth Tuesday of each month - excluding August.
2023 meeting dates: 25th April, 17th October, 5th December
Meeting venue: St Andrews Church Hall, corner of Craven Road and London Road, Reading, RG1 5BD (just a few metres from the Royal Berkshire Hospital's main entrance)
Contact: If you or someone you know has been affected by bladder cancer and you would like to attend, please email:
Chairman: Rob Stanton - 07885 114 232 - rob.stanton@readingbladdercancersupport.org.uk
Ken Livett - 07443 530 904 - ken.livett@readingbladdercancersupport.org.uk
Barbara Chandler - 07912 846 984 - barbara.chandler@readingbladdercancersupport.org.uk
Royal Berkshire Hospital Urology Department - 0118 322 8629
Website: http://www.readingbladdercancersupport.org.uk/.
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Redditch - Bladder Cancer Support Group
This new group is for those who require, or have had, treatment for bladder cancer and their partners/loved ones. It will provide an opportunity to meet up with others who are facing, or have already experienced, similar challenges.
This group does not meet on a fixed or regular basis but generally meet 2/3 times a year, they mail out to everyone to let them know when the group is taking place and who will be presenting. Or you can find further details from the contacts given below.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Meeting Venue: Alexandra Hospital, Redditch
Contact details:
Patient representative, Alan Powell - telephone: 01562 745138, email: a.powell456@btinternet.com
or
Jackie Askew, CNS - email: jackieaskew@nhs.net; telephone: 01527 503030 x 42157 or 42155
Sharon Banyard, CNS - email: sharon.banyard@nhs.net; telephone: 01527 503030 x 42157 or 42155
Salisbury - Bladder Cancer Support Group
If you live in the Salisbury area and have been diagnosed with Bladder Cancer or if your loved one has been diagnosed then there is a new support group that is being set up to offer you support, advice and friendship during your journey with this disease. Admission is free - You will be made very welcome!
Contact your Urology Nurse for more details. The Regional Engagement Lead for Macmillan Cancer Care and ABC UK South West Support Group Advisor will both be there.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Venue: The Education Centre, Level 5,Salisbury District Hospital, Oddstock Road, Salisbury, SP2 8BJ
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Southampton - Wessex Urology Support Group (WUSG)
There was a group running in Southampton, however, it is not running at the moment. Please let us know if you are interested in a group in this area.
Southend - Cadgers Urological Cancer Support Group
A support group for patients, partners and anyone affected by urological cancer,including bladder, kidney, prostate, testicular and penile cancer. We meet on the last Wednesday of each month at Balmoral Community Centre. Each month we invite a guest speaker to talk to the group either on a health topic or other area of social interest. On occasions we also have social evenings that can be great fun too.
Contact: Roger Bassett
Venue: Balmoral Community Centre, Salisbury Avenue, Westcliffe On Sea, SS0 7AU
Phone: 07831 542308
Email: roger.bassett@sky.com
Stafford - Stafford Bladder Cancer Support Group
This group is for those who require, or have had, treatment for bladder cancer and their partners. It will provide an opportunity to meet up with others who are facing, or have already experienced, similar challenges. Group meetings will be attended by a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Urology Cancer from the County Hospital Stafford. Speakers at meetings will include medical professionals and others. Group members will have an opportunity to ask questions.
2023 meeting dates: TBA. Meetings are usually held on the 2nd Thursday of alternate months - January, March, May, July, September and November.
Meeting venue: Berkswitch Parish Hall, Baswich Lane, Baswich, Staffordshire, ST17 0BY (behind the Holy Trinity Church).
Contact: Contact Debbie Clifford, Urology Cancer Nurse Specialist, or Colin Jones - or just come along to the meeting. You will be made very welcome.
Debbie Clifford:
Email: debbie.clifford@midstaffs.nhs.uk
Phone: 01785 886675
Colin Jones:
Email: czjones1939@gmail.com
Phone: 01785 663883 (Daytime only)
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Stoke - Stoke Bladder Cancer Support Group
This group is for those who require, or have had, treatment for bladder cancer and their partners. It will provide an opportunity to meet up with others who are facing, or have already experienced, similar challenges. Group meetings will be attended by a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Urology Cancer, from the Royal Stoke University Hospital. Speakers at meetings will include medical professionals and others. Group members will have an opportunity to ask questions.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Meeting venue: The Clinical Educational Centre at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, Newcastle Rd, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST4 6QG.
Contact: Register your interest in advance with Karen Moore, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Urology Cancer, or just come along to the first meeting. You will be made very welcome.
Email: Karen.Moore2@uhns.nhs.uk
Phone: 01782 679370
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Surrey - Frimley Park Hospital Bladder Cancer Support Group
This group is for those who require, or have had, treatment for bladder cancer and their partners. It will provide an opportunity to meet up with others who are facing, or have already experienced, similar challenges. Group meetings will be attended by a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Urology Cancer from Frimley Park Hospital. Frimley Park Hospital would like to invite patients to join our bladder cancer support meetings at Frimley Park Hospital.
The group is open to patients and family members, all welcome. Please confirm attendance for refreshment numbers or just come along.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Meeting Venue: Post Grad Centre, Frimley Park Hospital, Portsmouth Road, Frimley, Surrey GU16 7UJ
Contact: Register in advance with Suzanne Langley, Bladder Cancer Nurse Specialist, or just come along to the meeting. You will be made very welcome.
Email: Suzanne.langley@fhft.nhs.uk
Phone: 01276 604841
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Swindon - Swindon Bladder Cancer Support Group
A Bladder Cancer Support group set up to provide information, advice and support to those with bladder cancer, and their partners and carers. All are welcome.Group meetings are attended by a Urology/Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist from Great Western Hospital. Talks are also given by medical professionals and patients on varied subjects related to bladder cancer as well as more general topics of interest.
Meetings are usually held 6 times a year on a Thursday from 5.30 - 7.00pm at The Sun Inn, Marlborough Road, Swindon SN36AA
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Main Contact: Urology/Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist from Great Western Hospital
Email: swindon@wessexbcs.org.uk
This group works alongside Action Bladder Cancer UK
Wolverhampton - Bladder Cancer Support Group
The group was formed to provide information, advise and support to those affected by bladder cancer, including patients, partners, carers, family and friends. Group meetings are held every two - three months and are attended by Urology Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Jenny Akins and Helen Heap from New Cross Hospital. Talks are given by medical professionals on varied subjects related to bladder cancer.
Meetings are usually held on a Monday 1.30pm to 3.30pm every two or three months.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Venue: St Alban's Church Hall, Griffiths Drive, Wednesfield WV11 2 LJ
Contact: Urology Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Jenny Akins and Helen Heap from New Cross Hospital.
Phone: 01902 694467
Email: helen.heap@nhs.net
Website: http://www.wolverhamptonbcsg.org/
SCOTLAND
Aberdeen - UCAN Support Group
A support group for patients, partners and anyone affected by urological cancer,including bladder, kidney, prostate, testicular and penile cancer. From diagnosis through treatments to aftercare, talking to others can help you or you can help others who have just started their journey.
Meetings take place on the third Monday of each month.
2023 meeting dates: 17th April, 15th May, 19th June, 17th July, 21st August, 18th September, 16th October, 20th November.
Contact: Alan Harrow
Venue: CLAN House, 120 Westburn Road, Aberdeen, AB25 2QA.
Phone: 01224 555885
Email: plsg.ucan@gmail.com
Ayrshire - Bladder Cancer Support Group
There was a group running in Ayrshire, however, it is not running at the moment. Please let us know if you are interested in a group in this area.
Edinburgh - Bladder Cancer Support Group
For anyone who has had experience of bladder bancer treatment. An opportunity to meet other people and focus on your support and information needs.
Usually meet on the last Wednesday of every month at 11.30am until 12.30pm.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Meeting venue: The Maggie's Centre, The Stables, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU
Email: Edinburgh@maggiescentres.org
Telephone Number: 0131 537 3131
Website: https://www.maggies.org/our-centres/maggies-edinburgh/
WALES
Cardiff and the Vale - Bladder Cancer Support GroupCardiff and the Vale Bladder Cancer Support Group hold quarterly meetings at the University Hospital of Wales. The meeting will include a talk/refreshments and time to chat to others.
If you or someone you know has been affected by bladder cancer and you would like to attend, please contact Sarah Bennett or Sharon Arkless.
2023 meeting dates: TBA
Venue: Maggie's Cardiff, Chris McGuigan Building, Velindre Centre, Velindre Road, Whitchurch, CF14 2TQ
Telephone Number: 029 20748401
Email: uro.oncology@wales.nhs.uk
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