A NEW service to ensure people living with cancer and their families are offered emotional, practical and financial support was yesterday launched in Dumfries.
The Macmillan Improving the Cancer Journey service is a tried and tested model which provides one to one, tailored support for people affected by cancer and reduces pressure on health services and is already available in many parts of Scotland.
Now people across Dumfries and Galloway can access all the help they need – by making just one phone call.
Anyone who is newly diagnosed with cancer will either hear about the service from their hospital team or a letter and will be offered a meeting with a link worker. They will help with access to a wide range of non clinical support, including benefits advice, emotional support, and help at home.
There are around 100 people diagnosed with cancer each month and approximately 1200 people living with cancer across Dumfries and Galloway.
Janice Preston from Macmillan said: “This new service should make sure everyone with cancer and their families and carers in Dumfries and Galloway have someone to call on for help.
“We hope this service will transform cancer support in Dumfries and Galloway.”
Sharing his experience, John Lytham from Dumfries, who was referred to the service after his diagnosis, said: “I was really down in the dumps. My whole world collapsed.
“Julie McClelland, my link worker, was soon on the phone and she was very cheery. She explained everything to me, made me feel relaxed, and made me aware straight away that in no way would I be alone on my cancer journey.
“Overall they really did help me. It really is invaluable because it opens up new avenues. I would definitely recommend anyone diagnosed to go to Macmillan Improving the Cancer Journey.”
The project is open to everyone aged 18 and over living with cancer regardless of type or where they live locally. To find out more about the Macmillan Improving the Cancer Journey service call 07977 171837 or email [email protected]
Above: CANCER JOURNEY TEAM . . . Julie McClelland, Lauren Irving, Laura Gibson, Thomesema Lochhead, Liane Liberkowski
