New website provides local cancer patients with advice

Cancer patients and families in Newtown, Welshpool and across Powys can now access a new online hub bringing together information and support services through the county’s Improving the Cancer Journey programme.

The new webpages have been launched to help adults living with or affected by cancer find local support more easily, whether they have recently been diagnosed, are undergoing treatment, recovering after cancer, living with a palliative diagnosis, supporting a loved one or coping with bereavement.

The online resource includes access to the Cancer Community Connector for Powys, allowing people to refer themselves or someone else for support.

Those using the service can access personalised advice and signposting covering a range of practical and emotional concerns, including health and wellbeing, counselling, transport, returning to work, financial worries and planning support such as wills or pet care arrangements.

The site also includes information on how people can share their experiences to help improve cancer services in Powys and get involved in the Journeying Together Group, which helps shape the programme using feedback from people with lived experience.

There is also advice aimed at helping people prepare physically and emotionally before cancer treatment begins.

Louise Hymers, Macmillan Lead Nurse for Cancer and Palliative Care in Powys, said: “Improving the Cancer Journey in Powys is about listening to what matters most to people affected by cancer and making sure they are connected to the right support, at the right time.

“This new webpage makes it easier for people and their families to find help locally and to know they don’t have to navigate their cancer journey alone.”

The new webpages can be viewed at: www.haveyoursaypowys.wales/icj