ICUsteps Sunderland is a support group for ex-ICU patients, their families and friends run by former intensive care patients, relatives and health professionals. It was developed to provide on-going support after discharge for patients and relatives who have encountered critical illness.
This support is provided in the form of “drop-in meetings” where patients and relatives can come and talk to others who may be further down the recovery journey to share similar experiences.
Sharing experiences with others has helped people understand that they’re not alone in what they feel and think, and that more often than not, what they’ve experienced is normal for someone who’s been through a period of critical illness.
Meeting others who've been through similar experiences and are at different stages in their recovery can help reassure patients and relatives that there is light at the end of the tunnel and dispel much of their worry.
Whether you're an ex-patient or a relative, being able to talk about what you've been through with people who understand, because they've been through it too, can really help.
If you feel ready to talk, listen and share your experiences, or just want to drop in for a cuppa, we'd like to meet you.
Maybe you can help someone else!
Get in touch with ICUsteps Sunderland
If you'd like to know more, please get in touch and send us a message
Support group drop-ins
Physical drop-in meetings are currently on hold but online alternatives are available. View the support group page for more information or try the online community.