Cancer support is still strong
AS LONDON continues to follow the government’s advice to stay at home, protect our NHS and save lives during the ongoing coronavirus crisis, Hillingdon Cancer Support Centre is still reaching out to local self-isolating cancer patients with the offer of telephone support.
While physically unable see patients, Macmillan Information Centre managers, Fiona Hussey and Susan Grace, have found a safe way to continue to support local people affected by cancer by offering a comprehensive telephone cancer support service.
Fiona says: “It’s a difficult and uncertain time for everyone, perhaps more so for those living with cancer, so we knew how important it was to keep going and to be there for the people who depend on our support.
“Though our doors are temporarily closed to the general public for drop-in appointments we are very much still here for people affected by cancer in Hillingdon, and we are also so pleased that, during this crisis we have been able to support our colleagues by providing a ‘quiet space’ in the centre away from their work treating Covid-19 patients.”
Fiona and Susan are now manning their main phone line - 01895 279169 - from 9.00 am - 5 pm, Monday to Friday. Callers are asked to leave a message and a contact number, and then receive a prompt call back.
Their service offers vital emotional support over the phone, which includes: answering questions about cancer, treatment and side-effects; financial support such as help applying for benefits and one-off Macmillan grants, and signposting to other local support services, including help with COVID related difficulties.
At the Mount Vernon Cancer Centre in nearby Northwood, the determined team at the Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre are also continuing to provide many of their essential services over the phone - 020 3826 2555 - from 9.30am until 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. As the economic impact of Covid-19 puts more pressure on people’s finances, they continue to support with money worries and make referrals to the Hertfordshire Macmillan Welfare Benefits Service, as well as providing a listening ear to talk through any practical or emotional concerns.
Members of the complementary therapy team ordinarily based at the Centre are also offering guided relaxation appointments by telephone and specialist emotional support is still available from the counselling team.
Emma Tingley, Macmillan Strategic Partnerships Manager for London, says: “We understand that this is a particularly anxious time for people living with cancer but we want anyone concerned to know we’re doing everything we can to support you right now.
“As the teams in Hillingdon and Northwood are demonstrating, we’re making sure vital support continues to be available, for much needed advice and information relating to their cancer and wellbeing, including financial information and emotional support during this difficult time.’
Additional comprehensive information and support for all Londoners, including Macmillan’s latest guidance and advice on the impact of coronavirus on cancer care, is available macmillan.org.uk/coronavirus and the Macmillan Support Line is also open seven days a week between 9am-5pm on 0808 808 00 00.
Emma added: “At Macmillan, we are doing everything we can to help address the immediate and unique challenges that having cancer during this pandemic brings but we need the public’s help. As a charity almost entirely funded by public donations we’re asking people to give what they can, so that we can continue to provide vital support to people with cancer now and in the future. If you’re able to, please donate to our emergency appeal today.”
To donate to Macmillan Cancer Support go to: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/emergency or call 0300 1000 200.