Macmillan Cancer Support Pre-book now as face-to-face chats return
WITH the continued success of the vaccination programme and the drop in Covid-19 figures, we’re now delighted to announce that it’s safe for us to offer pre-booked appointments to anyone who needs face-to-face support.
For most of the past year now, we’ve spent our working hours at home providing the best service possible for those affected by cancer, whether newly diagnosed, going through treatment or living with the consequences of both.
We’ve also supported families through the trauma of hearing that a loved one is facing an uncertain future or months of gruelling treatment and, very sadly, some who have had to face the unthinkable truth that there is no happy ending.
Our telephone support has been fabulous and we’re justifiably proud of what we’ve been able to achieve, but seeing people face-to-face is really what many people have been waiting for.
Although social distancing will still have to be maintained (no hugs yet we’re afraid!) and we’ll both have to wear masks, we’ll at least be in the same room and be able to do more practical support such as helping out with forms – a lot easier that doing it over the phone.
However in order to keep everyone safe, anyone that wants a face-to-face appointment has to have a negative Covid-19 test on the day of their appointment.
Anyone without symptoms can go to Splashworld for a lateral flow test. This is very quick, but the results take up to an hour to come through. The result is sent in a text or an email and we will need to see this when you come into the centre.
At the moment, it’s difficult to say when we can resume our usual dropin service, as we need to control how many people are in the centre at any one time – but we want to assure you that we will see you as quickly as we can, it will be possible to see service users the same day following a negative test.
Likewise, our
fantastic support groups are still unable to meet at the centre, but we’re really looking forward to the day when we can throw our doors open to them – but only when it’s safe to do so.
If you would like to book an appointment, please call Tanya on 07974 167188 or Julia on 07947 630654
– alternatively, you can email sfccg. macmillancic@nhs.net
We are very much hoping to see you soon – but until then, take care and stay safe.
The Southport Macmillan Centre is at 29 Wright Street, Southport, Merseyside.