Donate
The current climate is an uncertain one, where inequalities and needs are being exposed every day. The divide within the areas once identified as the ‘five giants’ are reappearing and as a society, now more than ever, we need to stand together, rely on each other and be brave in our decisions and kind with our time and thoughts.
On World Cancer Day, we want to acknowledge that despite international, national and local challenges, changes and uncertainty, those living with and alongside cancer in the West of Scotland will not experience a divide in our commitment to be in at least one of three places: infront of them providing direction and guidance; alongside them providing the care and comfort required; behind them reminding them of who they are and what they can do.
WATCH: World Cancer Day at Beatson Cancer Charity
Video
The news at the moment can make us all feel uncertain and anxious about the present and the future. We all know and can acutely feel the impact that the cost of living, strikes and pressures on public services are having on us all. However, when we add into the mix a cancer diagnosis, it can become overwhelming.
In a recent survey carried out by ITV News, 56% of people living with cancer have missed hospital appointments due to being unable to afford to take time off work or because fuel prices have increased. At Beatson Cancer Charity, we try to alleviate some pressures to make things easier for patients and their families. We provide comfort items to inpatients to help make their hospital stay a little less daunting. We offer patients a cosy pair of pyjamas or some toiletries. Offering relaxation therapies or just a calm, welcoming space in our Wellbeing Centre can provide a break from the clinical setting of a hospital ward or waiting area.
Our Specialist Health and Work Service also helps to support people with cancer to remain in work. We provide psychoeducational group programmes called Living with Uncertainty and Fear of Recurrence and also offer Befriending services to help people feel less alone. From large funding projects to seemingly smaller but incredibly important projects, we work across a variety of areas to reach as many people as possible. Alongside our colleagues in the NHS, our intentions are bold but realistic, and challenge us to expand and improve our reach within a clinical environment and within the communities.
During the last few months of 2022, we provided 2,124 therapy interventions, 3,942 volunteer hours were donated and there were 1,307 visits to our Wellbeing Centre. Every service offered was different: different ages, challenges, locations and employment status - but the one thing that remained the same was their cancer diagnosis and our desire for better.
We want to focus on what unites us rather than the gaps between us. When we stand together, work as a team and raise our collective voices, we can and will make a difference. At Beatson Cancer Charity we believe that no-one should face cancer alone. So whether you’re 16 or 86, from Renfrewshire or Lanarkshire - we’re here for you.
