A new Macmillan project is being delivered in Wakefield to support the delivery of the Living With and Beyond Cancer recovery package.
The project, funded by Macmillan, has appointed three new Macmillan cancer care coordinators who are making a difference to people affected by cancer through their work at Pinderfields Hospital.
Breast Care Coordinator Jade Hirst, Urology Care Coordinator Amy Welsh and Colorectal Care Coordinator Nizar Muyangu support people throughout their diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
They listen to their concerns and worries and work closely with the Clinical Nurse Specialists in their teams; acting as a consistent point of contact for people throughout their treatment.
They also provide further support by referring to the local Macmillan hub at Pinderfields; who provide financial, practical and emotional support.
Jade said: “I really like talking to people and finding out more about their needs. I like helping people – that’s what I enjoy most of all about this role.
“We want people to know that we are here for them throughout their journey and encourage them to get in touch at any point.
“We can also signpost them to other support such as the Macmillan Information and Support Service in the hospital.”
Lead Cancer Nurse Keeley Clawson is also noticing the impact the three cancer care coordinators are having in their teams.
She added: “The three of them have been in post for a couple of months now – and they are really making a difference.
“The Clinical Nurse Specialists report back to me that the teams are sharing jobs out much better and when patients are getting in touch, they are able to get hold of someone more easily.
“There are opportunities throughout the pathway for them to tell someone about any of their concerns.”
The posts are being trialled for two years as part of the Macmillan Living With and Beyond Cancer Programme.
The programme has also seen the appointment of Macmillan Information and Support Coordinator Paula Williams, who provides support in the Macmillan hub, and Project Manager Kimberley Priestley.
Kimberley is looking at the wellbeing and support patients need at the end of treatment and working with local GP surgeries and wellbeing services to ensure that patients have equal access to services and support.
Kimberley added: “The addition of the cancer care coordinators has created a safety net for patients.
“They have now got that consistent point of contact, which helps to create a structured, supportive pathway.”