How Chesterfield cancer patients can access vital support during lockdown

A cancer support centre in Chesterfield has found a way to reach out to patients feeling vulnerable and alone during the coronavirus lockdown.
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Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, which sits inside the NGS Macmillan Unit at the site, is temporarily closed to visitors due to the pandemic.

However, determined staff at the centre have found a safe way to continue to help north Derbyshire residents affected by cancer by offering a telephone support service and a dedicated Covid-19 helpline.

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Maria Leadbeater, Macmillan Cancer Support centre lead, said: “Despite the incredibly difficult and uncertain situation every one of us has found ourselves in, we knew how important it was to keep going and to be there for the people who depend on our support, now more than ever.

Maria Leadbeater at Chesterfield Royal Hospital's Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service.Maria Leadbeater at Chesterfield Royal Hospital's Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service.
Maria Leadbeater at Chesterfield Royal Hospital's Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service.

“Though our doors are temporarily closed and many of us are working alone for everyone’s safety, we are very much still here for people affected by cancer in north Derbyshire.”

Maria and the team are offering emotional support over the phone which can include answering questions about cancer, treatment and side-effects, and advice on financial support such as help applying for benefits and one-off Macmillan grants.

They are also referring patients to Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s Cancer Psychology Service and to wig fitting service Trendco, which is still supporting people struggling with hair loss due to cancer treatment over the phone.

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A separate helpline dedicated to people that have questions about Covid-19 and cancer has also been set up by the team.

Sue Sanderson, Macmillan Partnership manager for Derbyshire, said: “In this unprecedented situation the way Maria and the team at the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre has adapted to ensure they are still able to support people is simply extraordinary.”

Anyone affected by cancer in north Derbyshire can call the team on 01246 516406 or email [email protected] – the centre is currently open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8.30am–4.30pm.

The centre’s Covid-19 helpline is available Monday to Friday, from 9.30am-4pm, on 01246 516183.