New support for cancer patients
A new way of ensuring cancer patients have access to receive the range of support they need is being piloted in Lanarkshire
Thanks to a partnership between Macmillan Cancer Support and NHS Lanarkshire, people with cancer now have the opportunity to speak with volunteers about their non-clinical concerns.
This unique pilot hopes to ensure that anyone affected by cancer is able to access all of the support they need at a time when they need it most.
It is being run by the same team behind Macmillan information and support services in libraries across Lanarkshire – including at Hamilton Town House.
Craig Tobin, Macmillan project manager in Lanarkshire said; “We’re trying to empower patients and their families with knowledge at a time when they are likely to be most anxious. The clinics are dealing with the physical side of treating and living with cancer.
“This partnership enables Macmillan in Lanarkshire to then support with other aspects of a cancer diagnosis; the emotional, practical, financial issues that many people affected by cancer face.”
Volunteers support people attending the lung clinic at University Hospital Monklands and the Herceptin Clinic at the Beatson in Lanarkshire.
The first session proved a huge success last month, with 22 people accessing the service and 16 being referred onto services to help to support them with issues ranging from benefits advice, emotional support and transport concerns to questions about travel insurance and nutrition.
The service will support the lung cancer clinic at Monklands every Monday between 9am and noon, and the Herceptin Clinic at the Beatson Hospital every Friday, between 9am and noon.
Anyone needing information and support for cancer outwith the above clinic times can visit the library drop-in sessions across Lanarkshire. The Hamilton Town House session is on Wednesdays from 11am to 1pm. Call the Macmillan in Lanarkshire service on 01698 332604. Alternatively, the support line service is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm on 0808 808 00 00.