Burns Patient Support
BUGS is the support group for patients with a burn injury treated at Salisbury District Hospital, who are under the care of the Odstock Centre for Burns, Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery.
When we were established in May 2000, it was widely recognised that post hospital support for Burns patients was sparse in the UK.
Our aim is to provide this support to all current and former patients and their families, who may or may not have been treated at Salisbury District Hospital.
We serve a large regional area, from Swindon in the north down to Southampton, Portsmouth, Weymouth and across to the Isle of Wight and the Channel Islands. We are funded solely through charitable donations, under the umbrella of the Stars Appeal and are run by lay and staff volunteers.
Our support starts on the ward in a number of ways including visits and essential emergency items on arrival. As patients move out into the community, we provide the opportunity for friendship, information, as well as practical and professional help and advice.
Our main activities include providing:
Our staff at Salisbury District Hospital have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.