There are so many support groups out there for people living with kidney disease. Below are a number of organisations and links to some that are available to everyone:
National Kidney Foundation Communities offer a safe and supportive place where patients and caregivers can share experiences, ask questions, and get answers related to kidney health, kidney disease, transplantation and living organ donation. Participation is free and anonymous.
Kidney Care UK is a very useful website with a huge number of patient information leaflets that can be downloaded. They also have a counselling service available to all patients and their families (01420 541424).
The National Kidney Federation is the largest kidney patient charity in the UK.
Run BY kidney patients, FOR kidney patients.
The Kidney Patient Guide Forum has amazing personal stories that many find very helpful.
Young at NKF (National Kidney Federation) on Facebook (for 18-25 year olds with kidney failure).
The United Norwich Kidney Patients Association (UNKPA) was registered as a charity in 1980, when Norwich had the only renal unit in this area of East Anglia. Membership now includes all renal patients from Norfolk and the Waveney District of Suffolk (not just those on dialysis), families and friends wherever they might live.
Feeling overwhelmed, Low, Anxious – ready to change?? Norfolk Wellbeing offer workshops, one to one sessions and more. You can easily self-refer on their website or call 0300 123 1503 (non-emergency).
Kidney Research UK provides a lot of patient information. If you wish to get involved in research you can sign up here.
Carers UK can provide advice and support on subjects such as finances, practical support, health, careers, technology etc. for those caring for others.
Visit the British Red Cross website if you feel you could use a little extra help at home, need some practical/emotional support amongst other things.
At the Norfolk and Norwich Kidney Centre, we are setting up a peer mentoring scheme where current renal patients already on dialysis/who have had a transplant are willing to chat about their experiences to those who have not yet started treatment.
Catherine Atkinson is our Renal Counsellor. Please see her page under 'Specialist Staff' for more information.
The Norfolk Renal Fund is a local charity set up to provide financial support to patients and their carers. If you feel they can help you, please visit their website HERE to find out more information and contact details.
Sandy Lines is your local Advocacy Officer for Norfolk. She can support you by:
-
Helping you access other Kidney Care UK support services
-
Arranging a welfare and benefits check
-
Guiding and assisting you through the benefits process
-
Supporting you with employment and housing concerns
-
Advising on respite break and dialysis holidays
Please contact her directly at sandy.lines@kidneycareuk.org or call her on 01603 783003.