Finding the right support or service at the right time on your cancer journey can be overwhelming, it may be difficult knowing where to start. Below are some examples of the type of support and services that may be helpful during each part of the pathway:
Pre-diagnosis/diagnosis – there are charities and support organisations that can offer help and advice when you first have concerns or are waiting for tests. It can be a very anxious time but there are lots of ways of helping you deal with things like stress, problems sleeping and anxiety. Take notes during consultations or if you are able, have a friend or family member with you. Sometimes it’s hard to take everything in and you may have further questions that you can seek help with.
Pre-treatment/Prehabilitation – you will have lots of questions and concerns around treatment and there are charities and organisations that can help you during this time with both practical and emotional support.
On treatment – when you are on treatment you may have side effects that impact your day to day life. There are charities and support services to help you manage things such as pain relief, anxiety and nausea, as well as practical things like transport, travel and managing your family and work life.
After treatment – when you are recovering from treatment there are charities and organisations offering help through support groups, counselling, complementary therapies, online support, financial advice and with practical things like returning to work or managing family support. The support doesn’t end when the treatment finishes
Supporting a friend or loved one – cancer not only impacts the person who has been diagnosed, but those caring for them. Many organisations offer help, advice and support for those carers, friends and family. There are online forums, helplines and support groups where you can connect with people who understand what you are going through, and can offer support.
Living with cancer – more and more people are surviving treatment and living with cancer as a longer term condition. There is ongoing support available whatever stage you are at following diagnosis and treatment. Living with cancer can throw up lots of life changes. Specialist organisations are there to help you navigate your life after cancer.
End of life care – there are many organisations who are there to help you and your family and friends at the end of life; to help you have those important conversations that many find difficult; and to support you to make final plans. There is also a wealth of bereavement support available to help people following the death of a loved one
In partnership with Cancer Care Map, we have developed an easy access guide to support services, activities and therapies to help people living with cancer within the South East London Cancer Alliance.
All support service information is provided by Cancer Care Map and is checked and updated regularly. To add or amend any information, please contact SELCA@cancercaremap.org