Joining forces with Macmillan

Cancer support service launches

A PHONE line service that offers support for people affected by cancer launches this winter in West Dunbartonshire.

Macmillan Cancer Support has teamed up with Breathing Space and West Dunbartonshire Council to help individuals diagnosed with cancer and their carers cope with the emotional and mental impact of the disease.

There are 500 cases of cancer diagnosed in West Dunbartonshire every year.

Macmillan will promote Breathing Space as a first point of contact for anyone who is struggling to cope emotionally with cancer or just needs to talk about how they are feeling.

Doctors, social care workers and NHS 24 will be able to refer patients and carers to this "out of hours" service.

The Scottish Government and funding from Macmillan will resource the 12-month pilot. If successful, the service will be developed across Scotland.

Tony McLaren, national coordinator for Breathing Space, said: "Cancer affects so many of us today and has a huge impact both on the person diagnosed and their family and loved ones.

"Not only are we trying to cope with the physical and financial implications brought on by the disease but the wide range of emotions we experience can also seem overwhelming. It's important to be able to talk about how you're doing mentally as well as physically.

"Breathing Space is here to help people with cancer and those close to them by listening to their concerns, fears and difficulties."