We are always here when times are hard
DURING these very challenging and unprecedented times we wanted to let you know that staff at the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre in Southport is still available to provide support to anyone affected by cancer.
Sadly, we have had to temporarily close our centre on Stanley Street, but we are now trying to provide as much support as possible over the phone.
We now have two numbers you can call for help: 07976 167188 or 07947 630654. You can also email sfccg@ macmillancic@nhs.net
We try our best to provide vital practical, emotional and financial support to people when they need it most.
In addition, comprehensive information and support, including Macmillan’s latest guidance and advice on the impact of coronavirus on cancer care, is available at www.macmillan.org.uk and our online community continues to provide invaluable emotional and peer support.
The Macmillan Support Line is also open seven days a week, between 8am-8pm, on 0808 808 00 00.
Please note that anyone looking for specific clinical advice re cancer and coronavirus needs to contact a medical professional, such as their clinical nurse specialist, consultant or GP, or through the Macmillan Support Line.
We are also urging the public to follow government guidance to stay at home unless absolutely necessary, to reduce the transmission of Covid-19.
This will help reduce the pressure on the NHS and help ensure it is safer for people going through cancer care and treatment.
Dr Graeme Allan, Macmillan GP and NHS Southport and Formby CCG cancer clinical lead, said: “Your GP can still refer you to specialist hospital teams for assessment and treatment if required.
“The number of referrals for suspected cancer has fallen during the Covid-19 period and we think this may be because people aren’t presenting to their GP with worrying symptoms, so, if you have any symptoms that you are concerned about, we would encourage you to contact your GP surgery to discuss them.
“During the Covid-19 pandemic, hospital teams have had to change the way they handle referrals including using telephone or video assessments instead of a hospital appointment where possible.
“While some investigations and treatments are going ahead as usual, others will be delayed because of the risks of Covid-19 infection.
“Certain patients who are waiting for cancer surgery may be offered the option to transfer to a different hospital in order to be treated more quickly.
“Make sure you know who to contact if you don’t hear about your hospital appointment or your symptoms change.”
Tanya Mulvey, centre manager added: “Being diagnosed with cancer is a life changing event and we recognise that the current situation will make this an even more difficult time for people affected by cancer – but the Macmillan team in Southport are still here, albeit at the end of the phone, rather than in the centre to try and support and help people through this incredibly difficult time as best they can.
“We are aware that there is an enormous amount of support developing locally through amazing people that want to help support the more vulnerable in their local communities.
“We are trying to make ourselves aware of as much of this as possible so that we can signpost our service users to support if they need it.”