Patients to help shape new cancer information and support service

The Trust now wants to gather ideas, comments and suggestions as to what way information should be provided and the type of information and support that people would find helpful.

The service has been developed to help address the needs of the growing number of patients living with cancer in the Northern Trust area. Its aim is to provide relevant, accurate, up-to-date information, along with support and advice, to cancer patients, their families and all those involved in their care.

The service will work with health care professionals to enhance and supplement information already provided in areas such as transport, health improvement programmes, local support services available, finances, treatment and care.

Margaret O’Hagan, Interim Director of Acute Services for the Northern Trust, said: “We’re delighted to be establishing this much-needed, valuable service.

“The provision of local cancer information and support can make a real difference to a patient’s quality of life by helping to improve their physical and mental health, their financial situation and their ability to manage living with cancer.

“We want the service to be as patient-centred as possible and are really keen to hear from those who would use such a service so we can ensure it provides the right advice, information and support in the right way.”

You don’t have to be a patient to use the service; it’s for everyone including patients, families, friends, carers and healthcare professionals.

Anyone with any ideas, comments or suggestions on how to shape the service should contact Nuala McErlane on 07795845435 or email [email protected].