Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is the name used to describe conditions such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease. In the UK, around 1 in 123 people are living with Crohn’s or Colitis, affecting over 500,000 people. These conditions can develop at any age, although they most commonly begin before the age of 30. Microscopic Colitis is more frequently seen in women and often develops after the age of 50.

IBD is a long-term (chronic) condition that requires ongoing monitoring and, in most cases, treatment with medication. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, frequent loose stools, rectal bleeding and fatigue. Some patients may also experience symptoms affecting other parts of the body, such as mouth ulcers or painful, swollen joints.

IBD is managed as a specialist area within Gastroenterology. Care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team, including consultant gastroenterologists, Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACP), specialist nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, stoma nurses and administrative staff. Together, the team provides coordinated, comprehensive care to support patients in managing their condition.

Consultant clinics

  • Transition Clinics
  • Referral to Dietitian for exclusion diets, general information on IBD/specialised diet where appropriate
  • Combined clinic with Gastroenterology consultant and Colorectal Surgeon

ACP/Nurse clinics

  • Medication counselling
  • New patient 
  • IBD nurse HOT clinic for Flare patients
  • Patient education
  • Reviews and follow up 
  • Drug monitoring clinics
  • Virtual and Telephone 

Facilities and Treatments

The Planned Investigation Unit at Leighton Hospital provides a range of specialist treatments for patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including biological therapy and iron infusions. The unit is located on the first floor, opposite Ward 9.

The service also offers Advice and Guidance and electronic triage for primary care, helping to ensure timely clinical review and strong links with community healthcare providers.

The Treatment Centre at Leighton Hospital supports a range of diagnostic investigations related to IBD, including colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, gastroscopy and capsule endoscopy. Please see the contact details section for further information.

Outpatient Services

Many outpatient reviews are carried out by telephone to provide convenient and timely follow-up care. Face-to-face clinics are primarily held at Leighton Hospital, with some appointments occasionally available at Victoria Infirmary, Northwich.

Inflammatory Bowel disease helpline

The IBD helpline is run by specialist nurses and Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) and is available Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

The team aims to respond to patients, particularly those experiencing a flare, within 24hrs to support early intervention (this does not include weekends), however, this may not always be possible  Patients who require more urgent advice are encouraged to contact their GP, who will be able to provide support.

Additional helpful information and contact details

  • Blood test booking system at leighton and Northwich Infirmary www.patientconnect.uhnm.nhs.uk

  • IBD helpline 01270 273910

  • Gastroenterology Secretaries 

  • Endoscopy For general enquiries, please call 01270 277980,For pre-assessment enquiries, please call 01270 277929, To reschedule your appointment, please call 01270 277980,

  • Planned Intervention Unit (PIU) - 01270 612433

  • Radiology appointments - 01270 278200

  • Appointments department - 01270 612200

  • Leighton Pharmacy 01270 612017

  • Leighton Hospital Homecare   tmc-tr.homecare-mchft@nhs.net

    Additional resources include those below

  • Crohns & Colitis UK website 

  • IBDpassport.com  website (helpful information re travelling abroad and vaccinations)

  • Iasupport.org    (patients who have stomas)

  • Gutschaity.org.uk   (patients who have IBS as well)