A NEW £320,000 service is set to offer a lifeline to the five hundred people diagnosed with cancer in Inverclyde every year.
The Macmillan Cancer Support project run by Your Voice will give the 3,000 people currently living with cancer in the area a chance to access vital support.
Together with the health and social care partnership and other partners they are joining forces to ensure that help is at hand every step of the way.
Those who were at yesterday's official launch of the Inverclyde Macmillan Improving the Cancer Journey Service heard about the difference it is making already.
The aim is to provide cancer patients with access to support on practical issues affecting them, such as financial problems, housing and transport, as well as emotional help.
Long serving councillor Robert Moran, who himself battled bowel cancer and is now chair of the Integrated Joint Board on health and care, spoke at the launch.
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He said: "Over the years I have heard many stories from those affected by cancer in some way.
"The challenges that living with cancer brings can affect not just physical health and aspirations but can have an impact on other aspects like mental health, work, education, finances and housing.
"Nearly 75 per cent of people in poorer areas are more likely to die of cancer than in more affluent areas.
"Poverty is very real worry for those living with cancer. Ultimately we want all the residents of Inverclyde to thrive and experience the best possible quality of life and this includes those living with cancer."
Speaking to the Tele afterwards Councillor Moran added: "I was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and I experienced many of the same worries, with work and family. I had to give up work and I remember all the problems I faced.
"At that time it was Jacqueline Coyle the local Macmillan welfare rights officer working on her own. She helped me so much and is now a really good friend. She does a fantastic job."
Your Voice executive officer Karen Haldane says the service will cover everything from getting blue badges, to arranging transport for treatment and help with benefits and much more.
Macmillan's interim head of partnerships for Scotland, Gordon McLean said: "This new service should make sure everyone with cancer and their families and carers in Inverclyde have someone to call on for help.
"Improving the Cancer Journey practitioners will help individuals to identify their needs and access expert support, from benefits advice to emotional support; whatever they might need. We hope this service will transform cancer support in Inverclyde.
"It’s thanks to the continued support from people locally, who fundraise for us and donate so generously, that we are able to fund this vital new service.
"With their help we can make a huge difference to the lives of people affected by cancer in Inverclyde.”
*The project is open to everyone aged 18 and over living with cancer, regardless of their cancer type or where they live in Inverclyde. To find out more about the Inverclyde Macmillan Improving the Cancer Journey service call 01475 728628 or email enquiries@yourvoice.org.uk
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