ABOUT US
In 2018, Medtronic filmed an interview with our founder and emeritus president, Chris Robinson talking about the formation, development and work of Barrett's Wessex.
You may view that video by clicking on the picture.
This video was produced by students of Southampton Solent University in 2015
Inaugurated in July 2009, we aspire to
- raise public awareness of Barrett's in the region and beyond
- provide support to sufferers and their families
- raise funds to enable the Barrett's Oesophagus Campaign to achieve its stated objectives to support research to better understand Barrett’s Oesophagus, provide support and advice to Barrett’s Oesophagus sufferers, their relatives and friends and to raise awareness of the condition to encourage early detection
- raise funds for local initiatives
- to support the establishment and running of other patient support groups
Achievements to date: In May 2011, we presented Southampton General Hospital with a "HALO" radio frequency generator that can prevent Barrett's developing into oesophageal cancer.
In June 2016, with the help of Southampton Hospital League of Friends, we completed the purchase of a fine bore endoscope which can help detect pre-cancerous changes earlier.
In November 2017, we inaugurated Barrett's Wales to help get RFA equipment for Welsh patients.
In May 2020, that was achieved.
In February 2019, we presented Lymington New Forest Hospital with a "scope assist" which helps endoscopist nurses provide more comfortable surveillance.
Barrett's Wessex is also an active member of Action Against Heartburn which has liaised with Department of Health to promote the Be Clear on Cancer oesophago-gastric campaign, produce a GP training package and promotional material.
In 2012, we initiated the recognition of February as oesophagus/oesophageal cancer awareness month in UK. #oesophebruary
In 2020, in conjunction with our spansh equivalent, Asenbar, we launched 16 May as World Barrett's Day
In 2015, we published the Down With Acid encyclopaedia with subsequent reprints and revisions in 2016, 2017 and 2019. A Spanish version was produced in 2019.
Although we principally serve those in the Wessex area, we welcome members from outside our area and welcome links with other support groups.
If you have no support group in your area, we are happy to try and help you form one.
Click here for information on how to start a support group.
MEMBERSHIP of Barretts Wessex is free and open to anyone with Barrett's and related conditions, their families, friends and supporters, who support the aims of the group and its parent charity, Click here to find out about the benefits of membership and how to join.