People living with cancer in Pennine Lancashire can still access vital information and support from a dedicated team at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.
The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service continues to help families affected by the disease during the COVID-19 pandemic with telephone and face-to-face support.
Erin Bolton, who manages the service, said: “Despite the restrictions imposed during the pandemic, the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service team is still on hand to support people living with cancer, their families and healthcare staff at this incredibly difficult time.
“We are doing everything we can to adapt our services so we can continue to provide essential support to people living with cancer across Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale .
“A cancer diagnosis, either for yourself or a loved one, can be scary at the best of times, but in the current climate these fears can be even worse. If you are struggling or know someone who is, if you are worried about the signs or symptoms of cancer or if you have recently lost someone to cancer, we are here with a listening ear.
“Emotional and practical support is available for anyone who wants it. Just pick up the phone or drop us an email.”
Services available over the phone from the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre include:
- Emotional and practical support
- Support in planning ahead and preparing for difficult conversations
- Links to support groups (which are mainly online at present)
- Linking with Macmillan Cancer Support Line welfare team for financial support
- Assistance with completing benefits applications
- Help with applying for blue badges (subject to certain criteria being met)
- Sending out Macmillan information direct to your home
- Links with the cancer teams for any clinical advice
- Signposting to other services
The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Anyone affected by cancer in Pennine Lancashire can call 01254 732598 or email eastlancsmacmillan@elht.nhs.uk.