At the launch of the Health Information Centre at North Devon District Hospital.
Macmillan in Devon helps local people affected by cancer in the following ways:
Health specialists: Macmillan funding has created the posts of more than 80 cancer care nurses, doctors, therapists and information specialists.
Financial help: Having cancer can bring extra costs – hospital parking and traveling expenses, extra heating, different clothes. Last year Macmillan gave over £123,400 in grants to more than 350 people in Devon.
Clear information: The Macmillan CancerLine provides free information and emotional support for people living with cancer, the benefits advice line helps them claim State benefits and now we have the Macmillan YouthLine, especially for people aged 12-21.
Cancer care centres: Macmillan has supported three cancer support and information centres in Devon designed specifically to create the best possible environment for people with cancer: the Mustard Tree Macmillan Centre in Plymouth, The Lodge in Torquay and the Health Information Centre at North Devon District Hospital in Barnstaple. Macmillan funding has also created the Supportive Care Family Suite for the very seriously ill at North Devon District Hospital.
However, more than 6,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in Devon every year. Macmillan's special brand of care and support is needed now more than ever. To support these needs, Macmillan is investing in the following new cancer care services in the county for which we need to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds:
In North Devon, we are funding the Macmillan lymphoedema service, helping patients cope with the swelling of limbs following cancer treatment. Macmillan will also continue to support a consultant in palliative care and the manager of the Health Information Centre at North Devon District Hospital.
Throughout East and Mid Devon a Macmillan GP Facilitator works with local colleagues to improve care provided in the community and especially palliative care.
In South Devon, two Macmillan nurses are supporting people through their treatment.
Macmillan is funding information and support services at The Lodge Cancer Support and Information Centre near Torbay Hospital. Macmillan is also funding an education programme to support paid carers.
In Plymouth and South West Devon Macmillan continues to fund the services
provided from the Mustard Tree Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre, in
particular a new Macmillan benefits adviser, who is ensuring that local people receive all
the benefits to which they are entitled. We are also funding a Macmillan speech and language therapist, helping people live with cancer.