Local eczema support groups are run by volunteers and some of them are supported and facilitated by healthcare professionals. The groups offer people with eczema and carers an opportunity to share information, experience and support. However, they are not a forum or substitute for medical advice from a doctor or other healthcare professional.
The support groups are independent of National Eczema Society and we have no responsibility for them, nor will the views of groups necessarily reflect those of the Society. If you are setting up your own eczema support group in the UK and would like it to appear below, please contact us at info@eczema.org.
We recommend that you contact the group organiser before attending a meeting, to check that the meeting is going ahead.
Scotland
Eczema Scotland is an informal online support group for people to ask questions and share tips: https://www.facebook.com/groups/743322186641353/?ref=share.
North East
Skin Action is a support group for adults in the North East of England, covering Newcastle, Gateshead, Northumberland and Durham. It doesn’t matter whether your eczema is mild or severe; everyone is welcome to come along. For more information, please contact Graham at stopscratchingne@gmail.com.
North West
GMESS Support Groups: GMESS (Greater Manchester Eczema & Skin Support CIO) offers an informal online support group, and also an informal in-person support group for people who are affected by eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. We offer a safe space for people to share experiences and get tips on how to better manage their condition. We also offer a WhatsApp group for more regular peer support. We meet online every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month 6pm-7:30pm, and also in-person every 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month 6pm-7:30pm at the Zion Community Resource Centre, 339 Stretford Road, Hulme, Manchester, M15 4ZY. For more information contact Paul Mattis on 07828-902300 / support@gmess.org.uk.
East Midlands
Nottingham: This group of carers of children with eczema and healthcare professionals was set up to offer support and information on an informal basis. The group meets infrequently, responding to local need as appropriate. For details, visit the group’s website (www.nottinghameczema.org.uk) and sign up to its web alert (emailed news service) or contact the group through the website. The group can be followed on Twitter under the name ‘eczemasupport’.
West Midlands
Hereford: Join the Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/279901809328961/?ref=share; Eczema support for families and children.
South East
West Surrey and North East Hants: centred on Guildford, this group’s principal activity is to support the NES, especially through local fundraising. The Group issues two newsletters a year detailing local activities. To request a copy and for more information about the Group, please contact Vicky Robinson by email at nescards@yahoo.co.uk.