Wigan Lymphoedema Service
Wigan Lymphoedema Service
Patient and Carer Information
Long Term Conditions
- Author ID: SG / JS
- Leaflet Ref: CM 349
- Version: 1
- Leaflet title: Wigan Lymphoedema Service
- Date Produced: December 2025
- Expiry Date: December 2027
Who are we?
We are the Lymphoedema Team based at the Long-Term Conditions Suite in Boston House, Wigan.
We are healthcare professionals who have undertaken specialised training to provide care for patients who are living with lymphoedema.
We work closely with other health professionals to provide expert care.
What do we do?
We work with people who are experiencing difficulties in their everyday life because of Lymphoedema.
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a condition that is characterised by swelling of one or more limbs (arm or leg) or other parts of the body, which does not reduce overnight and has been present for more than three months.
How can we help you?
Once accepted into the service, you will be offered an initial assessment. During this assessment, we will help you to identify your treatment priorities and work together with you to create a plan to help manage your oedema.
This plan may include:
- recommendation of compression garments
- instruction in simple lymphatic drainage techniques
- exercise and lifestyle advice
- basic skincare advice
Compression garments
You may require compression garments to help manage the swelling. There are a range of prescribable garments available. We will assess which is the most suitable for you. The NHS can provide 2 garments every 6 months.
How do you get the compression garments?
We use a company called Patient Choice, an independent pharmacy, to manage the process of getting the compression garments.
With your consent, we contact the Patient Choice pharmacy to request the garments. They will then contact your GP for a prescription. Once they have the prescription, Patient Choice will send your order to be made. It will then be delivered to you.
Sometimes, despite accurate measuring, the garment may require alterations, which would result in a further NHS prescription. If you pay for your NHS prescriptions, this will mean a further prescription charge.
Where will you be seen?
You will be offered an appointment at the clinic at Boston House, Wigan. A home visit may be offered if you are unable to attend the clinic for medical reasons.
How often will you be seen?
You may be reviewed 3-6 months after your initial assessment, depending on your needs.
Once you have better control of your oedema, you will be discharged.
A repeat prescription will be organised if you require ongoing compression garments.
Following discharge, if your needs change, you can request your GP or health care professional to send a new referral.
How to contact us:
If you have any questions or queries which we have not covered in this leaflet, please contact:
Wigan Lymphoedema Service
Long Term Conditions Suite
Boston House
Frog Lane
Wigan
WN6 7LB
Telephone number: 0300 707 1170
Monday to Friday: 8.30am – 4.30pm
www.wwl.nhs.uk/lymphoedema-service
Useful contacts:
The Lymphoedema Support Network
St. Luke’s Crypt, Sydney Street, London,
SW3 6NH
Tel: 020 7351 4480
Email: admin@lsn.org.uk