MP Stephen Timms visits our Macmillan partnership
Stephen Timms, MP for East Ham took time out of his busy schedule to visit the Macmillan Information and Support Service at Newham University Hospital.
He came to witness first-hand how the charity works within the hospital and the surrounding area to help people with cancer cope with the impact of their diagnosis.
Stephen learned how the Macmillan Social Prescribing Service, provided through the Bromley by Bow Centre, helps people to get back on their feet during and after cancer treatment.
The service, which is one of the first of its kind in London, helps people prioritise what is important to them and then helps them to connect with local community services to meet their practical and psychological needs.
Stephen Timms said:“I was impressed by the range of information and support available to patients from Macmillan services at the hospital to address the financial, practical and emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis, complementing the clinical care the hospital provides.”
“It’s also great to see the way the Macmillan Social Prescribing Service links to community organisations to support people affected by cancer in the area. One of these services is the Macmillan Benefits Service, a partnership with Toynbee Hall. What’s more, patients clearly benefit from the quiet space provided by Macmillan at the hospital to discuss their diagnosis and concerns at a time that suits them.”
Dr Jason Saunders, Clinical Director for Surgery and Cancer, Barts Health NHS Trust added:“We were delighted to welcome Stephen Timms to Newham Hospital to witness the great collaboration we have with Macmillan. We look forward to our continued partnership helping patients to have a high quality experience with safe and compassionate care.”