Up to 80% of people with rectal cancer undergo sphincter-preserving surgery and, of these, around 90% subsequently have a change in bowel habit, ranging from increased bowel frequency to faecal incontinence or evacuatory dysfunction. The wide spectrum of symptoms after resection and reconstruction of the rectum is termed anterior resection syndrome. Many patients feel isolated by their symptoms, which can have a devastating effect on their quality of life. This article describes the development of a patient-led support group, supported by clinical nurse specialists, for people with bowel dysfunction following surgery and treatment for rectal cancer.