The inaugural session of the Bladder and Bowel problems SIG took place at the spring meeting of the BGS in Telford.

The aims of the group are:

• to provide a focus for those clinicians involved in care of older people who have a special interest in the problems of urinary and faecal continence;
  
• to facilitate and encourage collaborative research and development within the field;
  
• to promote interest and participation in the care of older patients with bladder and bowel problems.

Objectives
More specifically the group hopes to:

• produce meaningful audit of care for presentation at national meetings of the Society.
  
• encourage original research for presentation at national meetings of the Society.
  
• provide continuing professional development in the form of educational updates on bladder and bowel treatment for members of the Society.

MRC Continence Programme
Approximately 60 delegates took advantage of the wisdom accumulated from the MRC continence programme in Leicester, professionally and expertly led by Dr Kate Williams. Data showing the efficacy of a nurse led continence service were presented and discussed in detail, with plenty of audience participation. This session is particularly pertinent given the requirement for integrated continence services for older people as mandated by the National Service Framework.
The aims and objectives of the SIG were introduced to the audience and the case made for the importance of integrated continence services within the National Service Framework for Older People.

SIG Membership
Any member interested in participating in the activities of the SIG should send their contact details to Dr. James Barrett, Secretary for the SIG, at Clatterbridge Hospital, or e-mail him at: jabarrett@clatterbridgesru.freeserve.co.uk

The group is planning a one-day conference to take place in the Autumn. The meeting will cover the essentials of assessment of bladder and bowel problems and service development. Membership of this multidisciplinary SIG is free.