Our films don’t end when the credits roll. The women in them are still fighting, and here’s how you can stand with them.
TAKE ACTION
The Medical Mesh Scandal Ruining Women’s Lives
Women were told a mesh sling was a safe 15 minute fix. Thousands were left with life-changing injuries, and many spent years being told it was all in their heads.
If you’ve been affected
Sling the Mesh is a support network for people harmed by surgical mesh, founded by Kath Sansom in 2015. You don’t have to go through this alone. slingthemesh.co.uk
If you have mesh complications, ask your GP or consultant about a referral to a specialist mesh centre. There are nine in England and one in Glasgow, with surgeons, pain specialists, physiotherapists and psychologists who work together on your care. Sling the Mesh has a letter you can take to your GP to help start that conversation. slingthemesh.co.uk/patient-resources
You can also report your mesh complications to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, however long ago the mesh was put in. Mesh harm has been badly underreported, and every report adds to the record. yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk
Support the campaign
Donate to Sling the Mesh, a registered charity that offers support, raises awareness and funds research. justgiving.com/charity/slingthemesh
Hold the government to account
More than two and a half years after the Hughes Report recommended a redress scheme for women harmed by mesh, they are still waiting. Write to your MP and ask them to press the government for a response. writetothem.com