Cancer Help & Information Day

Are you or someone you know affected by cancer? Do you want to meet other patients and carers in a similar position and share your experiences? Then why not come along to a special help and information day. The theme for the day is the financial costs of cancer.

The event is being run by a user partnership group called SPILLS – Support and Partnership involving Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark – made up of patients, ex-patients, carers and cancer health professionals who work together to make improvements to local cancer services.

The day will consist of talks by Macmillan Cancer Support, the Citizens Advice Bureau and service users, as well as information stands, opportunities to meet benefit advisors, cancer organisations, other patients and carers, and some complementary therapy taster sessions.

"So many patients and carers find it difficult to access support and information about the range of help that is available. Our day is designed to help people know where they should go for help and to talk openly about their concerns and experiences," said Mairead Griffin, Lead Cancer Nurse for Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust.

"Extra costs often associated with cancer include transport to appointments, parking, child care, special diets, clothing and extra heating bills at a time when income may be reduced. According to Macmillan Cancer Support, more than half of eligible patients are not claiming benefits they are entitled to. Making sure people affected by cancer are fully aware of what they are entitled to is essential and our day should give local residents the information they need" added Mairead.