Macmillan Cancer Support is offering virtual help after being forced to temporarily halt its support services in South Lanarkshire.
The cancer charity prides itself on having face-to-face information and support hubs in libraries and hospitals across Lanarkshire, as well as providing support in clients’ homes.
Macmillan Cancer Support was forced to temporarily stop its in-person support in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Now the charity, thanks to the hard work of its staff and partners, NHS Lanarkshire, Culture & Leisure North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire Leisure & Culture and North Lanarkshire Council, is offering emotional, financial and practical support online and over the phone.
Craig Tobin, who manages Macmillan’s projects in Lanarkshire, said: “Cancer is very tough at the best of times, but right now people are trying to cope with the illness during a time of great uncertainty, often without being able to see their friends and family for comfort.
“It’s heartbreaking to think of people trying to cope with the worry cancer brings while self-isolating, possibly entirely on their own.
“We want them to know that although we can’t see them in-person we’re still here to support them. All the emotional, practical and financial support we offered before is still here, it’s just on the end of the phone or online.”
Lanarkshire resident Ann Court, 67, tried out the new online services and has given her nod of approval.
She said: “I was very well taken care of physically at the hospital but this service made me realise how much the situation had affected me emotionally.
“I am a very positive person but it’s nice to have someone to talk to and it’s so lovely that Macmillan check up on me.
“Anytime I am feeling ill, it’s Macmillan I contact. They’re my support, along with my family and friends.
“They have made a huge difference to how I cope every day.
“I tell everyone in a similar situation to me all about them in hope that they reach out.”
Macmillan has a range of support services available including a benefits advice service which helps people with cancer claim government benefits and supports them with housing issues.
Services for both North and South Lanarkshire can be reached by calling 01698 332631 between 9am and 5pm or email: macmillan@culturenl.co.uk
Support and advice are also available by calling Macmillan’s UK-wide support line – mainly staffed by Glasgow-based nurses – on 0808 808 0000. The line is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm, or visit macmillan.org.uk.
