PEOPLE affected by cancer during the coronavirus crisis can still access vital support.

The Macmillan Information and Support Service at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) and CancerCare are both continuing to offer services to people

UHMBT employs Macmillan staff to provide information and support between 9am and 4pm from Monday to Friday each week.

The UHMBT Macmillan team provides emotional and physical support, a link with the Macmillan Welfare Team for any financial support and assistance with completing benefit applications.

If the phone line is busy, callers are asked to leave a message as team members might be on another call - they will get back to you.

Macmillan colleagues can help with applications for Blue Badges (for people who meet the criteria), links with certain Citizens’ Advice Bureau teams who will offer telephone support and advice as well as send out information directly from Macmillan to patients’ homes.

Lorraine Jones, UHMBT Macmillan Information and Support Service Manager, said: “We are here for patients and families and are offering our services throughout the coronavirus crisis.

“Anyone in need of support or advice can contact us by phone or email and we will be happy to have a chat. These are difficult times so the need for clear information and someone to talk to can be even greater for people affected by cancer.

“We have the latest specific advice and guidance on coronavirus and how it can affect people with cancer. If anyone has any questions, I would urge them to contact us and we will be happy to help.”

For anyone who wants information or is lonely and needs a chat, the Macmillan team can be contacted by using the following details: telephone 01524 519578; telephone 07972639424; or email macmillan.info@mbht.nhs.uk.

Additionally, during the coronavirus crisis, CancerCare is providing two brand new services across south Cumbria and the Morecambe Bay area. The first is a dedicated information helpline open daily from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday. The other is a new essential food and medical supplies delivery service for eligible clients who are self-isolating and can’t leave their homes.