Amputee and carer support in Southampton (ACSIS) offers support to amputees and their family and friends.

Around 60 lower limb amputations are carried out in Southampton each year. The reason for this varies, but the outcome is often the same and people face similar challenges every day.

This group gives you a chance to have a chat and a coffee, and also to become involved, if you wish, in supporting other people before and after an amputation. This could be by visiting, or being a friend at the end of a phone. It's particularly useful if:

you've already had a limb amputated
you're waiting to have an amputation
you're a friend, carer or relative of an amputee
you're a healthcare professional who'd like to know more about the challenges faced before and after an amputation.

The group provides an informal environment to ask questions which you may be unsure about asking such as ‘do I sleep with my prosthesis on?’. It also provides inspiration in finding out how others have overcome challenges, or amended things in their lives to make the most of their new beginning.

The group also provides an educational opportunity for healthcare staff to understand the personal challenges faced by amputees, and with this knowledge we can ensure that we provide the best possible care for amputees. There is no joining fee and all are very welcome.