SearchSupport Groups
Did you know...all our support groups are run by Area Coordinators who volunteer their time to organise meetings all over the country. Our Area Coordinators are from all walks of life including some who suffer with EDS, to those who care for someone with it. Without our volunteers, the support we provide to you would cease to exist, so we are incredibly grateful for the invaluable work they do.
We have over 100 groups online and face to face, with the aim to provide safe, friendly environments where members can meet others, listen to people’s stories and learn from each other. All of our support groups also have a closed regional Facebook group for members only.
We are very grateful to all of our funders who help pay for the meetings, training of our volunteers and much more.
Colchester
Hazel
I’m Hazel and I was diagnosed with EDS Hypermobile Type, along with various comorbidities, when I was 19 after multiple doctor and specialst appointments.
I live in Colchester with my husband and 2 dogs. Currently, I’m a part time psychology student and, when I have the energy for it, I enjoy reading, writing, gaming, and photography.
I’m Leah, one of your Area Coordinators for Colchester.
My diagnosis journey started in 2022 alongside becoming a wheelchair user, and I received my official diagnosis in 2024. Since then, my main mission has been to educate myself, and my loved ones about EDS/HSD and the many comorbidities that come with it.
I’m excited to expand this into a volunteer role and I hope to help as many people as I can!
Members of EDS UK are welcome to join their regional closed members group on Facebook. Visit us here to join your regional group.
Please note that Volunteer Area Coordinators may not get back to you immediately.
If you need to talk right now, whatever you’re going through, there are people you can talk to any time. You can:
call Samaritans on 116 123 (UK-wide)
text SHOUT to 85258 (UK-wide)
call C.A.L.L. on 0800 132 737 (Wales only)
These services are for anyone who’s struggling. They won’t judge you.
They’re free, they’re anonymous, and they’re always open.
Online meeting
Date: 4th October 2026
Start: 11:00 am
Finish: 1:00 pm
Zoom meeting link: Click here to join
Additional info: Please ensure you read our online support group meeting policy and privacy policy before attending. The online support group policy is particularly important as it sets out guidelines for how the meeting will take place and things you should consider before attending an online support group.
Virtual support group meeting with Hazel and Leah. Everyone welcome
Date: 7th November 2026
Start: 2:00 pm
Finish: 4:00 pm
Venue: Greenstead Community Centre, Hawthorn Ave, Colchester CO4 3QE
Additional info: Face to face support group meeting with Hazel and Leah. All welcome - refreshments provided - please fell free to bring a friend or family member with you. Accessible venue
Map:
Online meeting
Date: 6th December 2026
Start: 11:00 am
Finish: 1:00 pm
Zoom meeting link: Click here to join
Additional info: Please ensure you read our online support group meeting policy and privacy policy before attending. The online support group policy is particularly important as it sets out guidelines for how the meeting will take place and things you should consider before attending an online support group.
Virtual support group meeting with Hazel and Leah. Everyone welcome