Volunteers are needed to join an innovative cancer care pilot project which is funded by Wessex Cancer Alliance.

Volunteers may include former patients who have been directly affected by cancer, or friends and family members of those who have been impacted by cancer and want to make a difference.

Volunteers will be based with UHD’s cancer specialist teams across Royal Bournemouth and Poole hospitals, with referrals made where clinical teams feel a patient could benefit from additional health and wellbeing support via telephone or face to face, for an agreed period of time.

Claire Smith, lead cancer nurse at UHD, said: “This is a really rewarding role that is about supporting patients during their cancer care and treatment. By providing advice, friendship and solidarity to someone throughout one of the hardest times of their life, volunteers are able to make a tangible and lasting difference through their lived experiences. In return, volunteers can expect to receive comprehensive training and support, and be a welcome addition to our hospital community.”

To find out more, email Claire.Smith@uhd.nhs.uk