News from Bullen Healthcare

March 2024

SIA Healthcare's 10th Anniversary

We are delighted to celebrate SIA Healthcare's 10th anniversary, we reflect on our journey as we commemorate this significant milestone.

On 20^th March 2014, a brand-new collaboration was launched: SIA Healthcare. This innovative initiative has become a vital lifeline for people living with spinal cord injury by offering dedicated home delivery services for urology and stoma products, as well as prescription medications. SIA Healthcare marks a decade of successful partnership between Bullen Healthcare, the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA), and Pharmore Plus and is meticulously designed to cater to the specific needs of its members, their families, and the broader SCI community.

SIA Healthcare has not only made the lives of people living with spinal cord injury more manageable but has also provided a sense of community and understanding. As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of this exceptional initiative, we acknowledge the significant impact it has had on the lives of those living with spinal cord injuries.

The benefits of SIA Healthcare

SIA Healthcare has revolutionised the way people living with spinal cord injury receive the essential supplies they need. Here are some of the key benefits that have made it an indispensable resource for the SCI community over the last 10 years:

Convenient home delivery: SIA Healthcare ensures that both appliances and medication prescriptions are discreetly delivered to your doorstep, eliminating the hassle of frequent visits to pharmacies or medical supply stores.

Personalised support: Every member of SIA Healthcare is assigned a friendly, named, personal adviser from the SIA Healthcare Team. These advisers take the time to understand the unique needs of each individual, providing tailored assistance.

Specialist nurses: SIA Healthcare understand how important it is getting help and advice when you need it. The service has its own team of specialist nurses available and able to speak to members via phone, video or even home visit depending on the location.

Streamlined ordering: One call, one order, and one delivery - SIA Healthcare simplifies the process, ensuring that members don't have to worry about making multiple calls or managing complex orders.

Flexible ordering: SIA Healthcare accommodates various ordering preferences. Whether you prefer email or other communication methods, they work with your lifestyle to provide a seamless experience.

No wastage: Through regular monthly stock checks, SIA Healthcare ensures that members only order what they need. This eliminates excess stock and the burden of managing unwanted supplies.

Tailored complimentary items: SIA Healthcare offers a unique package of complimentary items that accompany each order. These items are tailored to suit the individual needs of each member, providing additional value.

SIA Healthcare's commitment to innovation, compassion, and dedicated support has truly made a difference. Here's to another decade of transforming lives and providing essential support to the SCI community.

Gratitude for those we appreciate:

SIA Healthcare would like to give their heartfelt thanks to over 4000 SIA members who have selected SIA Healthcare as their preferred home delivery service over the last decade. We deeply appreciate each and every one of you.
A special acknowledgment to the healthcare professionals throughout the UK who steadfastly support us and individuals with spinal cord injuries in various units.
To those who have graciously shared their wonderful testimonials and comments, your words serve as a constant reminder of the significance of our service.
Appreciation extends to the entire SIA Healthcare team and the broader SIA team for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the seamless operation of our service. You are the core of everything we strive to achieve.

February 2024

Ski Trip 2024

Bullen Healthcare, the provider of Shine Health Direct, is committed to supporting the Spina Bifida and Spinal Cord Injured communities. A standout event in the calendar has involved partnering with Teleflex and Freerider Sports Events to sponsor an adaptive ski trip. This endeavour has proven to be a resounding success. Participants, once doubtful about skiing with their disability, cherish the chance to spend several unforgettable days in Northern Italy. Their experiences on the slopes are nothing short of incredible—overcoming fears, gaining new skills, and, above all, enjoying immense fun.

On Sunday, January 21st, 2024, ten eager participants, including Chris Greenhalgh and Paul McKillop from Shine, embarked on journeys from Heathrow, Manchester, and Dublin to Milan and Bergamo Airport, signalling the start of their three-day skiing adventure in Folgaria. Despite some initial nerves, these ten brave individuals were brimming with excitement for the upcoming adventure. Upon reaching Folgaria, the group settled into their hotel, taking a moment to relax, unpack, and forge connections in anticipation of the thrilling skiing experience awaiting them the following day.

Within the group, seven individuals had no prior sit skiing experience and three had some prior experience with sit skiing. Nevertheless, under the guidance of the skilled Freerider team in adaptive skiing, they were in capable hands. Renowned for their proficiency in accommodating individuals with diverse levels of Spina Bifida, the Freerider team excels in pushing boundaries in a friendly and supportive manner. Their expertise ensures that everyone feels at ease stepping out of their comfort zone during this unique skiing experience.

Looking ahead, preparations for the 2025 ski expedition are already underway.

For further details, visit https://www.bullens.com/skitrip/

November 2023

The Norfolk & Waveney Appliance Prescription Service (NWAPS)

More exciting news! Our latest NHS commissioned centralised prescription service has gone live today in East Anglia. The Norfolk & Waveney Appliance Prescription Service is responsible for prescribing stoma and catheter products including accessories for patients registered with selected GP practices and our team have worked closely with colleagues at NHS Norfolk & Waveney ICB, GPs, specialist nurses and other local healthcare professionals to mobilise this exciting service.

To enhance the existing care patients receive, our Specialist Nurses Prescribers are responsible for every prescription, which are sent via EPS where possible to the patient’s dispenser of choice.

Centralising prescribing for stoma and urology appliances is proven to improve patient outcomes, increase patient satisfaction and reduce costs to the NHS. To simplify commissioning, NHS Norfolk & Waveney ICB commissioned the service using the East of England NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub National Framework, one of two national frameworks available.

Bullen are the UK’s leading provider of NHS commissioned centralised prescription service. If you are an NHS commissioner looking to reduce prescribing costs whilst improving quality, please get in touch.

August 2023

BLMK Service Makes Significant Impact: July Survey Reveals Positive Patient Feedback

In slightly over two months since its launch, the BLMK service has already made a notable impact on patient experiences, according to the results of our July survey. Conducted among patients after their first order, highlights the growing success and satisfaction associated with the BLMK service.

Key Findings:

Two-Thirds Report Enhanced Satisfaction: An impressive two-thirds of participating patients reported a noticeable enhancement in their overall experience after their first order with the BLMK service.

High Satisfaction Rating: The outcomes of the survey signify an overwhelmingly optimistic response from patients, with a noteworthy 75.5% already expressing their satisfaction with the BLMK service. This high level of satisfaction underscores the dedication and commitment that has gone into crafting a service that aligns with patients' needs and expectations

Positive Impact on Patient Experience: By providing a seamless and user-friendly experience, the BLMK service has successfully streamlined the patient journey, offering people a convenient and accessible platform to access the care they need.

Empowering Patient Voices: The survey responses shows the importance of patient feedback and its contribution to refining and advancing the BLMK service even further. This patient-centric approach ensures the ongoing evolution of the service to better cater to the needs of its patients.

The BLMK service has made remarkable progress in a relatively brief span of time. The positive feedback from our patients underscores our dedication to offering an accessible and efficient service. We remain dedicated to sustaining this momentum and enhancing our services further, driven by the invaluable insights shared by our patients.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all patients who participated in the survey and generously shared their experiences. Your feedback is priceless.

June 2023

BLMK Service Welcomes its 1000th Patient

We are thrilled to announce that the BLMK Service, operated by Bullen Healthcare, has achieved an incredible milestone by welcoming its 1000th Patient.

At the BLMK Service, our primary focus is assisting patients with stomas. Through our specialised solutions and personalised approach, we have garnered the trust and support of both healthcare professionals and patients alike.

This milestone is a testament to the growing demand for efficient, patient-centred prescription services. Leveraging our expertise, we have significantly improved the quality of life for patients in need of bladder and bowel care.

The success of our BLMK Service in welcoming over 1000 patients underscores our pivotal role in revolutionising prescription services. As we continue to collaborate with healthcare professionals across the UK, we are poised to make a lasting impact on patient care, driving positive change within the healthcare ecosystem.

June 2023

SIA Healthcare's Engagements in Empowering Spinal Injury Patients: A Recap of Recent Events

SIA Healthcare is dedicated to supporting individuals with spinal injuries and has been actively participating in various events to provide valuable insights and support. Through collaboration with healthcare professionals, support coordinators, and representatives, SIA Healthcare aims to empower patients and enhance their quality of life.

Kerry Redman has worked for Bullen, the provider of SIA Healthcare, for over 31 years as North West Territory Manager. Throughout the month of May, SIA Healthcare has been involved in several events that have facilitated connections with patients, professionals, and support networks. Each event has played a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment, promoting education, and delivering specialised care.

On 25th April, SIA Healthcare partnered with David Eastham, a support coordinator for SIA, for a support day at the Clatterbridge Spinal Unit. This event focused on providing specialised care, support, and resources to patients undergoing treatment. SIA Healthcare works with David to ensure the seamless coordination of services and effective fulfilment of patients' needs. The support day included educational sessions, interactive workshops, and one-on-one consultations, all aimed at addressing patients' concerns and providing personalised assistance. SIA Healthcare's active involvement showcased their dedication to enhancing the overall well-being of spinal injury patients and improving their quality of life.

In collaboration with The Cheshire and Merseyside Rehabilitation Network (CMRN), SIA Healthcare joined an event at Broadgreen on 4th May. This collaborative event aimed to enhance the rehabilitation journey for spinal injury patients by sharing experiences, knowledge, and resources. The event emphasised the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and provided an opportunity for SIA Healthcare to actively engage with patients and healthcare professionals. By working closely with various stakeholders, SIA Healthcare strives to improve patient outcomes and promote holistic spinal injury care.

On 22nd May, SIA Healthcare actively participated in a support network meeting at the Walton Centre. This gathering brought together spinal injury patients, healthcare professionals, support coordinators, and representatives from SIA Healthcare. The focus was on addressing patients' concerns, sharing knowledge about rehabilitation strategies, and discussing the latest advancements in spinal injury care. SIA Healthcare's presence at the meeting demonstrated their commitment to providing comprehensive support and fostering a sense of community within the spinal injury patient population.

On 23rd May, SIA Healthcare took part in an event at the Seddon Suite in St. Helens, aiming to provide a platform for patients to connect with representatives from SIA Healthcare, healthcare professionals, and other key stakeholders. This event fosters open discussions, the sharing of experiences, and the provision of valuable insights to empower patients on their recovery journey. The presence of healthcare professionals and SIA Healthcare representatives ensures that patients receive the latest information, resources, and guidance to facilitate their rehabilitation and improve their quality of life.

SIA Healthcare's engagements in various events highlight their unwavering commitment to empowering spinal injury patients. Through collaboration with healthcare professionals, support coordinators, and representatives, SIA Healthcare creates opportunities for patients to connect, share experiences, and gain knowledge. By actively participating in support network meetings, collaborative events, and support days, SIA Healthcare demonstrates its dedication to improving the lives of spinal injury patients, fostering a sense of community, and promoting a holistic approach to care. As SIA Healthcare continues its mission, it will remain a beacon of support for individuals with spinal injuries, enhancing their well-being and providing them with the resources they need to thrive.

To find out more about SIA Healthcare, call us now on 0800 023 8841 or visit

https://www.spinal.co.uk/get-support/sia-healthcare/

March 2023

Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Stoma prescription Service (BLMK SPS)

Bullen Healthcare based in Liverpool have been selected to provide a centralised stoma prescription service across Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes for over 2300 patients.
The service is brand new for Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes.

BLMK SPS will be responsible for prescribing all stoma products for people living in the areas covered by the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board. Patients’ stoma prescriptions will be authorised by our specialist stoma nurses, to ensure that patients are ordering and using the best products for their particular needs.

The service does not replace the existing treatment, care and support that patient receive from hospital stoma nurses, and associated healthcare professionals, but enhances the care patients receive.

5th February 2023

SIA Ski Trip

Bullen Healthcare were delighted to sponsor the latest Freerider Sports ski trip to Folgaria in Italy.

After postponing trips in 2021 and 2022 because of the pandemic, we were finally back!

It was our 3^rd trip and after two years of waiting everyone was excited!

On the 5^th February 10 SIA members travelled to Italy to take part in a Freerider Ski Event.

It was a brilliant experience for those who attended the trip, helping to raise awareness of Spinal Cord Injury. In our group we had varying levels of spinal cord injury and thanks to our amazing team of coaches there was no barrier for anyone.

The SIA team had a great time and exceeded everyone’s expectations.

2nd December 2022

Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week

Bullen supported our friends at Crohn’s and Colitis UK during Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week.

Anfield Stoma Open Day

On the 25^th of November we were at Anfield for Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust stoma open day.

Gavin Walker receives MBE

On the 8^th on November our SIA Healthcare Outreach Manager Gavin Walker was at Buckingham Palace to receive his MBE from The Prince of Wales for his services to Wheelchair Rugby

Spina Bifida Awareness Week

To celebrate Spina Bifida awareness week our member of staff Chris Jones took part in the Langdale half marathon to help raise awareness and make a difference to people living with Spina Bifida and/or Hydrocephalus

"Spina bifida literally means ‘split spine’. A fault in the development of the spinal cord and surrounding bones (vertebrae) can leave a gap or split in the spine. The spinal cord does not form properly, and may also be damaged.

The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord. Everything we do, is controlled by the brain, including breathing and maintaining our body temperature. Our senses send information to our brain, which deliver messages to different parts of the body via the spinal cord and pairs of nerves that emerge at each vertebra."

https://www.shinecharity.org.uk/spina-bifida/what-is-spina-bifida

21st July 2022

Spinal Injuries Scotland Day

Bullen was one of the sponsors at Spinal Injuries Scotland Annual BBQ and Activities Day at Castle Semple

Go Yellow for Shine

We have been wearing yellow for Shine today to support the charity, raise awareness
and make donations to help their members with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

Supporting World IBD Day

Today we were supporting World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day, to help raise awareness by sharing some important information throughout the day.

Bullen warehouse team climb Snowdon for stoma charity

Over the weekend, some of our amazing Warehouse team took on the challenge of climbing Snowdon. They managed to raise over £800 for the charity, this money will provide 27 new stoma patients with a support pack to take home.

Over the weekend, some of our amazing Warehouse team took on the challenge of climbing Snowdon. Our warehouse team send out appliances for people with a stoma on a daily basis, and they wanted to do something in honour of new young stoma patients, which is why they chose Buttony Bear. They managed to raise over £800 for the charity, this money will provide 27 new stoma patients with a support pack to take home. A Bear Named Buttony supports children and young people who have a stoma. For children, they gift a bear with a stoma, a book and for young adults, a wash bag full of non-medical items to help adjust to life with a stoma. Buttony Bear’s aim is to offer positive support and have an active Facebook page where you can get support from other parents who may have a similar question or concern. The team took a Buttony Bear up to the top of Snowdon with them and managed to get up and down within 5 hours – an amazing effort that was rewarded with a trip to the pub straight after! We can’t wait to see what their next challenge will be!

19th January 2022

Bullen Healthcare rated Good by the Care Quality Commission

We are delighted to be able to share the results of our recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission, who have given our nursing service a Good rating.

This is a fantastic achievement by the team, even more so given that the inspection was set against the background of the COVID19 pandemic, which has been extremely difficult for nursing services everywhere.

The inspectors commented on the number of positive comments from patients about the nursing services that we deliver (you can read more about this below), and on the high level of care and kindness that patients received from our nurses “staff treated patients with compassion and kindness. They understood the individual needs of patients and supported patients to understand and manage their care, treatment or condition.”

You can access the full CQC report here.

9th December 2021

First patient surveys from Merseyside & Region Stoma Service nursing team

100% of MARSS patients found that having a nurse review was helpful to them in reducing complications and providing easier access to community support.

Since the Merseyside and Region Stoma Service (MARSS) was launched, a team of specialist nurses have been responsible for offering advice, repeat prescriptions and urgent responses to patients. This service has been available to all the Mersey and Region Stoma Service patients either by phone, a video call or a personal visit.

In order to ensure the personal service by our specialist nurses is continuously improving patients have been giving feedback on their reviews. From the feedback left 100% of MARSS patients reported that having a nurse review was helpful to them. Furthermore, 96% of patients said that the service they received from the nurses was either very good or excellent. 100% of patients felt that the nurses listened to them and felt able to ask questions. 97% of the patients who had a change of products were happy with this change.

Along with the outstanding nurse feedback results we also had some great comments including this one which one patient said: “I learned more about my stoma and care than ever before. I haven’t seen a stoma nurse for 12-15 years and it was very helpful”. Another patient said “The service I received was excellent, after 12 months struggling with the stoma pancaking the nurse "Luci" spotted the problem at once, replaced the incorrect appliance and at the moment I can't thank her enough. Many many thanks for prompt excellent service.”

1st November 2021

Merseyside & Region Stoma Service is now live across the whole of Liverpool and Merseyside

Liverpool based Bullen Healthcare have now successfully launched the centralised stoma service for over 5,000 patients making it the biggest stoma prescription service of its kind.

Bullen Healthcare and 6 CCGs (Knowsley, Liverpool, St Helens, Warrington, Halton and Wirral) have been busy working collaboratively to mobilise and launch the Merseyside and Region Stoma Service (MARSS). This centralised community service has been specifically designed to improve the quality of prescribing of stoma products and appliances via specialist nurse input which can deliver significant impact in terms of both quality of life, ensure the best use of NHS resources and free up GP time.

A telephone-based ‘hub’ is now fully operational for prescription requests, and local community clinic ‘spokes’ provide ongoing community review and specialist nurse oversight across the 6 localities, delivering enhanced patient care.

For the majority of patients it is in their best clinical interests to have contact with a specialist stoma nurse periodically to ensure products remain suitable and ensure they are managing well with their stoma. Already, the service has provided over 500 specialist nurse appointments.

To ensure all patient clinical needs are met, patients will receive a regular survey asking their opinion of the quality of care they experience. In addition, a patient panel has been established and already had its first meeting to continually improve the service.

18th September 2021

Bullen Healthcare secure a place on new national framework for Centralised Prescription Hubs

We are delighted to announce that Bullen Healthcare are the highest scoring supplier on the newly awarded National Framework for Centralised Prescription Hubs (Bladder and Bowel) published by the Countess of Chester Hospital Commercial Procurement Service.

The National Framework can help commissioners to implement a service quickly and efficiently using a light touch procurement, and offers a fully compliant route for all NHS and public sector bodies.

The Framework is built to assist in freeing up GP and primary care time and improve prescribing control by ensuring that local prescribing guidance is followed consistently. This will result in a reduction in prescribing costs, reduction in patient complications and bladder and bowel related emergency admissions.

By transferring responsibilities to a team of specialist nurses who are able to offer advice, repeat prescriptions and urgent response to patients, emergency admissions will reduce and patient outcomes will improve. Annual Reviews conducted by the specialist nursing team will ensure regular contact with patients, thereby reducing complications and providing easier access to community support.

Bullen’s Clinical Director, Denise Williams-Cox said “The best thing about our position on the new framework is that Bullen are already delivering these benefits right now, through the NHS-commissioned prescribing hubs we already provide including LUAMS and MARSS.”

12th May 2021

Bullen Healthcare strengthens support for stoma patients with new clinical nurses

Everyday across the UK individuals undergo a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy and must adjust to life with a stoma. Thanks to the addition of four new stoma care nurses to Bullen Healthcare’s clinical team, Bullens customers will be able to access support, information and clinical advice after surgery.

Bullen Healthcare has been providing support to their customers for decades via an established clinical team led by Denise Williams-Cox, the Sales and Clinical Director.

The four new stoma care nurses are Samantha Cottrell, Luci Georgeson, Kimberley Harrison and Nichola Lovelady. Between them they have years of experience. They have worked in both the NHS and the private sector. As well as being qualified stoma care nurses they have also worked in areas such as intestinal failure, stoma skin conditions, urology, gynaecology and general colorectal nursing.

Commenting on the new hires, Denise Williams-Cox, said:

“I’m very proud of our clinical team and the difference they make to our customers’ quality of life. I’m delighted that Samantha, Luci, Kimberley and Nichola are joining the team. They will play an important role in our work with our NHS colleagues and provide all round support to our customers.”

The clinical team that the stoma nurses are joining is one that has built an excellent reputation for delivering the highest levels of care and support. As one Bullen Healthcare customer says:

“The service received from my clinical advisor Tracey was second-to-none. She was absolutely brilliant with the condition. She was very thorough in all the equipment and the demonstrations and I am now able to use the equipment myself.”

Bullens Clinical team work closely with their NHS colleagues who appreciate the support they offer, especially during the COVID pandemic when NHS resources were under significant pressure.

18th March 2021

Sysco Business Skills Academy Apprentice of the Year

We are absolutely delighted to announce that Callum Merner, one of our warehouse apprentices has won Supply Chain Operative Apprentice of the Year for 2020/21

Callum was nominated by his trainer Jon who said that Callum deserved to win due to his hard work and dedication to complete his Supply Chain Operative Level 2 qualification.

It's been a really busy year at Bullens, with everyone pulling out the stops to ensure that our customers continue to receive their orders on time, and Callum has played a big part in this, alongside completing his qualification.

Jon's nomination highlighted this saying "Callum has worked throughout the pandemic providing an escalated service to the public during these difficult times. Callum was able to find the time to complete his qualification while managing his burgeoning work commitments.

Callum has gone above and beyond what was expected of him as he was able to complete his end point assessment onsite at Bullen Healthcare."

Well done Callum! Everyone here at Bullens is very proud of you!

10th December 2020

Stoma for a Day

We held a #StomaForADay event in support of the fantastic #StomaAware campaign from Colostomy UK. A big part of what we do involves our stoma customers, so we thought it would be a good idea for the wider Bullens team to try wearing a stoma bag for a day to get a little more insight into what it is like for our customers.

A big part of what we do involves our stoma customers, so we thought it would be a good idea for the wider Bullens team to try wearing a stoma bag for a day to get a little more insight into what it is like for our customers. To make it more realistic they were filled with porridge.

We were overwhelmed with how many of the team took part, and have had some amazing feedback from our customers who have really appreciated us doing this, some have even said they want to do the same with their family.

We asked everyone for feedback on what it was like, and here's a small selection.

"It feels very weird! I didn't like the pouch tucked away in my pants because when I sat down I felt the contents were pushing down and I'm paranoid the pouch is going to burst."

"I found every time I was bending up an down working I could see myself sort of holding the bottom of the bag just incase it burst but hey its been fine."

"I did keep touching my bag and checking. Emptied it when I got home and got porridge on my hands! Great experience."

24th November 2020

Bullen Healthcare selected to provide centralised stoma care services across Cheshire and Merseyside

After a robust and carefully considered tender process, Liverpool based Bullen Healthcare has been selected as the Successful Bidder for the provision of Stoma Care Services by 6 Clinical Commissioning Groups across Cheshire and Merseyside. This new centralised community stoma service will ensure patients receive the support from specialist stoma nurses as part of their appliance prescribing and ongoing care as well as provide more accessible community support for patients following discharge from hospital. This new service aims to improve the quality of life for stoma patients by ensuring the service they receive is co-ordinated well, responsive and ensures they receive the correct advice, products and support whilst also, releasing GP time, and reducing the risk of stoma patients needing urgent or emergency interventions. As part of the new service, patients will still have full choice of which community pharmacy or dispensing appliance contractor delivers their stoma prescriptions.

Cheshire and Merseyside Stoma Programme Manager Shoshana Bloom said: “This project has been a great example of cooperation and collaboration between commissioners; working together to ensure the best possible care is delivered for patients across the Cheshire and Merseyside region. The decision to select Bullen Healthcare Group as a provider for this service was based on a robust assessment that considered both the quality and cost effectiveness of the proposed delivery approach. The decision was reflective of the company’s understanding of the service required as well as local needs”.

Bullen’s managing Director, Paul Bullen, said: “This is great news for stoma patients across the local area and we are looking forward to working closely with our NHS partners to deliver a first-class service to patients. We have recently strengthened our stoma nursing team and this new service will create additional new jobs in Merseyside.”

Bullen Healthcare is a 4th generation family-owned business that was established in 1858 and during that time has become one of the UK’s leading healthcare companies for Stoma, Urology and Woundcare patients. Bullen supports patient and clinician choice in the field of Bladder and Bowel Continence Care by supplying all brands of products. As an essential service, Bullens remained open during the lockdown to ensure its patients were kept safe and received the products and medication they needed when they needed them.

Notes:

A stoma is an opening to the skin made by a surgical procedure to allow the contents of the body to drain into a bag. Patients use bags and associated products on an ongoing basis; the type of product varies according to the location of the surgery and patient needs. Patients obtain their products using a prescription, which is dispensed by a community pharmacy or specialist appliance home delivery service (DAC).
Annual stoma spend across Merseyside and Wirral is over £10m per year.
In the UK it is estimated that there are 122,000 people living with a stoma at any one time.
Every year there are approximately 24,500 new stomas formed, with an equal split between temporary and permanent . Approximately 50% of patients with a temporary stoma wait more than 12 months for a reversal.

1st November 2020

Bullen Healthcare to expand Clinical Nursing team

Everyday across the UK individuals undergo surgery to form a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy and must adjust to life with a stoma. Thanks to the addition of two new stoma care nurses to Bullen Healthcare’s clinical team, individuals with stomas across Merseyside and beyond will be able to access improved care, support, information and advice both before and after surgery.

Bullen Healthcare is a leading provider of stoma appliances to individuals on Merseyside and beyond and has been providing support to stoma patients for decades via an established clinical team led by Denise Williams-Cox, the Sales and Clinical Director.

The two new hires are both clinical nurse advisors in Stomacare.

Commenting on the new hires, Denise Williams-Cox, said:

“I’m very proud of our clinical team and the difference they make to our customers’ quality of life. I’m delighted that Freda and Anne are joining the team. They will play an important role in our work with our NHS colleagues and provide all round support to our customers.”

The day-to-day management of Bullen Healthcare’s clinical team is the responsibility of Emily Moss who has a background in stoma and colorectal care with many years’ experience within the NHS. Of the new hires, Emily said:

“Freda and Anne joining our team is an exciting time for Bullens. We are now able to offer an even better service to our stoma customers, and I know that both Freda and Anne are looking forward to the new opportunities ahead.”

The clinical team that Freda and Anne are joining is one that has built an excellent reputation for delivering the highest levels of care and support. As one Bullen Healthcare customer says:

There are currently over 1,000 people in Liverpool living with a Stoma with an estimated 17,000 people in the UK requiring stoma surgery each year.

28th October 2020

Liverpool healthcare company tackles ‘mask poverty’

Healthcare delivery company Bullens has this week been delivering a different kind of help to local foodbanks across Liverpool; donating reusable face masks and hand sanitisers to combat ‘mask poverty’ across the city.

In response to reports from foodbanks across Liverpool that people are struggling to afford face masks following government measures making the wearing of face coverings mandatory in many locations, Bullens set out to deliver reusable masks and hand sanitisers.

Commenting on the initiative, Bullen Healthcare’s Marketing Director, Steve Winterson, said: “With the wearing of face coverings becoming mandatory for many parts of daily life, the offering of free reusable face masks will be of extra benefit to those who are more vulnerable. Especially with the Liverpool City Region being placed under Tier 3 restrictions it is more important than ever to look after our local community.”

Sam Tomlin of Stoneycroft Salvation Army foodbank welcomed the donations of reusable facemasks and hand sanitisers, saying: “We’re really grateful for the donation Bullens sent to us at Stoneycroft Salvation Army, at this uncertain time our community has needed more support than ever. The hand sanitisers and masks will help keep people who rely on our services safe, especially through our distribution of food.”

Bullens has been in the healthcare business for over 160 years, and as a fourth-generation family owned business which has its headquarters in Liverpool, takes supporting local good causes seriously.

Foodbanks supported by the initiative include Stoneycroft Salvation Army, FareShare Merseyside, South Liverpool Foodbank and Micah Liverpool and others.

https://www.uknewsgroup.co.uk/liverpool-healthcare-company-tackles-mask-poverty/

27th October 2020

Taking steps to become region's greenest home delivery company

A fourth-generation family-owned business, Bullen Healthcare has taken another step to become the region’s greenest home delivery company for Stoma, Urology and Woundcare products. Founded in 1858, the business, is one of the oldest in Liverpool.

Here's how Bullen Healthcare has already taken actions to reduce its environmental footprint:

Moving to a low-carbon print solution with Printroom UK, reducing the environmental impact of customer packages.
Further developing its in-house local delivery network, reducing the amount of transport miles of its local deliveries.
Increasing the amount of cardboard and other materials they recycle to at least 80 tons annually (an amount which is equivalent in weight to 13 elephants).
The installation of electric vehicle charging at the company headquarters at Brunswick Business Park, Liverpool.

Recognising the company’s responsibility to the environment as well as its customers, Paul Bullen, Managing Director, said:

“Bullen Healthcare delivers absolutely essential Stoma, Urology and Woundcare products to people across the region and we’ve continued to do that throughout the very difficult circumstances created by the pandemic. But we also recognise the need to deliver these essential products in a way which reduces our impact on the environment.”

“We want to do everything we can to reduce harmful carbon emissions and waste. Which is why we’re committed to becoming the greenest Stoma, Urology and Woundcare delivery company in the region.”

Steve Winterson, Marketing Director at Bullen Healthcare, said:

“If the environment isn’t healthy, then we aren’t healthy. The health and wellbeing of our customers, staff, and local communities is our top priority, so it makes logical sense to make our operations as environmentally friendly as possible.”

“To that end, we have this week selected Bootle-based printing company The Printroom UK as our print partner. Switching, along with our other initiatives will make an immediate contribution to our goal of becoming the greenest delivery company for Stoma, Urology and Woundcare products in the region.”

https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/bullen-healthcare-take-steps-to-become-regions-greenest-home-delivery-company/

11th October 2020

Launching our new company values video

Back in 2015 our employees came together to draw up our company values. Five years on we wanted to review the values and what they mean to us as a company.

Sandwich seller now earning a crust in a new way

Lorraine Pennington from Liverpool regularly sold her sandwiches to Bullen Healthcare but feared for her business when COVID-19 struck – but now she has a new role

It’s not every day that you sell a sandwich to your next employer, but for Lorraine Pennington from Liverpool, that’s exactly what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lorraine had been delivering sandwiches to the offices of Bullen Healthcare at Brunswick Business Park for several years, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Facing a drastic drop in income for her business, a solution came from an unexpected source. The man she was selling a sandwich to.

“I just happened to be talking to Richie the warehouse manager while I was doing my usual rounds, and out of the blue he asked me if I would consider coming to work at Bullen as a driver,” said Lorraine.

“As well as knowing how important their service is to their customers, the fact that Bullen is an essential service and remained open during the lockdown was a key factor in my decision to join them.”

160-year-old Bullen provides an essential service to thousands of people across Merseyside and the UK, delivering stoma and urology products and medication prescriptions to patients’ homes. It’s a service which came under immense pressure during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Managing director, Paul Bullen, describes how the company has responded to the increased pressures of COVID-19. He said: “Taking on Lorraine was just part of the way we’ve had to adapt to the challenges of supplying our patients throughout the UK at a really difficult time.

“We were impressed by Lorraine’s drive and enthusiasm and knew she’d be a great member of the team. We’ve been recruiting people with all kinds of skills, to keep our home delivery service working effectively throughout the pandemic.”

As well as recruiting staff, Bullen has had to deal with challenges with their delivery partners and worries about potential delays with stock.

“To say it’s been challenging would be an understatement, but we know that our patients rely on us to deliver life-changing supplies and we just couldn’t let them down,” added Mr Bullen.

It has been a challenge which was also recognised by Bullens’ customers such as Gemma Willingham. She explained: During lockdown, we all had our own individual worries; for some it was the shops running out of pasta, toilet roll and hand sanitiser, but for me it was the worry of not having my stoma supplies.

“Throughout the lockdown however, Bullen continued to provide their usual high standards of customer care and reassurance to myself and many others.”

https://lbndaily.co.uk/sandwich-seller-now-earning-crust-new-way/

16th March 2020

COVID 19 - Our response to the pandemic

We are aware that customers may be concerned about the impact of COVID 19 on our ability to continue to deliver their products on time.

We are closely monitoring the advice from the Government, Public Health England and the NHS and have strong contingency plans in place to manage any impacts from Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Our senior team are working with our suppliers and partners to ensure that all of our customers continue to receive the products and medication they need when they need them. Our customers do not need to take any action regarding their deliveries and do not need to increase their orders.

The situation is under constant review. Should advice change, we will communicate this to our patients promptly.

We have made the attached video to show you how our contact centre continues to work within the existing COVID19 regulations.

https://youtu.be/xmToKHEdvuM

3rd February 2020

Bullen Healthcare sponsors SIA ski trip

In February 2020 we ran a ski trip to Folgaria in Northern Italy in conjunction with our charity partner the Spinal Injuries Association. The skiing is organised through the Teleflex Active Living programme with Freerider.

Nine people with spinal cord injuries spent four days in Folgaria learning to ski.

The trip was organised in conjunction with the Teleflex Active Living programme, who each year take groups of people with disabilities to learn to ski.

The SIA team had an amazing time. They all had varying levels of spinal cord injury, but were all able to enjoy skiing for the first time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QPD0xtxZNE

22nd November 2019

Bullen Healthcare Finance Director awarded FD of the Year

Finance Director, Ian Burton, was awarded Finance Director of the Year in the £30-£42 million turnover category in the FD of the Year awards which was held last night here in Liverpool.

The awards recognised and celebrated the work done by Finance Directors across the Cheshire, Liverpool City and north Wales regions. There were 300 nominations for the wards, which where whittled down to a shortlist of 34 finalists, all of whom then had a Dragon’s Den style interview before the winners were announced on the 21st November.

The awards were sponsored by Grant Thornton, HSBC Commercial Banking, Accountable Recruitment and Hill Dickinson.

Everyone here at Bullens is delighted that Ian has been recognised for the great work that he does!

19th November 2018

Results of the 2018 Dispensing Appliance Contractor Survey

As part of our contract with the NHS we have to prepare a report every year on what our customers think about our service.

The Dispensing Appliance Contractor (DAC) questionnaire is designed and produced centrally, and all DACs (stoma/urology home delivery companies) are required to send them out annually to a random sample of patients.

We sent out questionnaires to 2,500 patients and received 811 back, which is a response rate of 32% which is fantastic.

We were delighted with the results of the survey, as overall they were really positive. When asked to rate our overall service, 95% of our customers said it was Excellent or Good. 96% said that it was Very Easy or Fairly Easy to contact us, and 79% said that delivery was prompt.

It was the lovely comments from our customers that really pleased us. So many of you had such lovely things to say about our service and our staff.

“I have always found all your staff to be very helpful. Your staff provide excellent customer service, with a personal touch and understanding!”

Thank you to everyone who completed the survey and we hope to be able to report even better results next year. You can read the full report here.

News from Bullen Healthcare

March 2024

SIA Healthcare's 10th Anniversary

February 2024

Ski Trip 2024

November 2023

The Norfolk & Waveney Appliance Prescription Service (NWAPS)

August 2023

BLMK Service Makes Significant Impact: July Survey Reveals Positive Patient Feedback

June 2023

BLMK Service Welcomes its 1000th Patient

June 2023

SIA Healthcare's Engagements in Empowering Spinal Injury Patients: A Recap of Recent Events

March 2023

Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Stoma prescription Service (BLMK SPS)

5th February 2023

SIA Ski Trip

2nd December 2022

Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week

25th November 2022

Anfield Stoma Open Day

9th November 2022

Gavin Walker receives MBE

24th October 2022

Spina Bifida Awareness Week

21st July 2022

Spinal Injuries Scotland Day

17th June 2022

Go Yellow for Shine

19th May 2022

Supporting World IBD Day

24th March 2022

Bullen warehouse team climb Snowdon for stoma charity

19th January 2022

Bullen Healthcare rated Good by the Care Quality Commission

9th December 2021

First patient surveys from Merseyside & Region Stoma Service nursing team

1st November 2021

Merseyside & Region Stoma Service is now live across the whole of Liverpool and Merseyside

18th September 2021

Bullen Healthcare secure a place on new national framework for Centralised Prescription Hubs

12th May 2021

Bullen Healthcare strengthens support for stoma patients with new clinical nurses

18th March 2021

Sysco Business Skills Academy Apprentice of the Year

10th December 2020

Stoma for a Day

24th November 2020

Bullen Healthcare selected to provide centralised stoma care services across Cheshire and Merseyside

1st November 2020

Bullen Healthcare to expand Clinical Nursing team

28th October 2020

Liverpool healthcare company tackles ‘mask poverty’

27th October 2020

Taking steps to become region's greenest home delivery company

11th October 2020

Launching our new company values video

18th September 2020

Sandwich seller now earning a crust in a new way

16th March 2020

COVID 19 - Our response to the pandemic

3rd February 2020

Bullen Healthcare sponsors SIA ski trip

22nd November 2019

Bullen Healthcare Finance Director awarded FD of the Year

19th November 2018

Results of the 2018 Dispensing Appliance Contractor Survey