The Macmillan Beyond Diagnosis service in Nottingham is proud to announce its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of providing vital, person-centred support to thousands of individuals and their families affected by cancer across Nottinghamshire. Delivered in partnership with Self Help UK, this pioneering service has been a lifeline for those navigating the complex journey of living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis.
Since its inception in summer 2015, the Macmillan Beyond Diagnosis service has focused on the often-overlooked period after initial treatment, where practical, emotional, and social challenges can significantly impact quality of life. The service offers tailored support that empowers individuals to regain control and live life as fully as possible.
Key achievements over the past ten years include:
- Holistic Support: Providing a wide range of assistance, from emotional support and befriending to practical help with daily tasks, signposting to other services, and facilitating access to peer support groups.
- Addressing Unmet Needs: Identifying and filling crucial gaps in support, particularly for those facing isolation, struggling with the long-term effects of treatment, or needing help with practical aspects of life after diagnosis.
- Community Empowerment: Fostering resilience and confidence in individuals through personalised interventions, enabling them to reconnect with their communities and build stronger support networks.
- Volunteer Power: Relying on the dedication of trained volunteers, many of whom have lived experience of cancer, to provide empathetic listening and practical assistance.
- Award-Winning Recognition: The service was a proud winner of a Macmillan Professionals Excellence Award in 2023, testament to its impactful and innovative approach.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate ten years of the Macmillan Beyond Diagnosis service in Nottingham,” said Jane Owen-Pam, Professional Engagement Improvement Lead at Macmillan Cancer Support. “This milestone is a powerful reflection of doing whatever it takes to help people living with cancer across Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire to get the support they need right now and transform cancer care for everyone who will be diagnosed in the future. The partnership with Self Help UK has been instrumental in delivering this vital support, helping thousands of local people to navigate life beyond diagnosis with greater confidence and wellbeing.”
Ian Boyd, CEO of Self Help UK added, “Reaching this 10-year mark is a testament to the dedication of our team, our incredible volunteers, and the strong partnership we have with Macmillan. The Beyond Diagnosis service has consistently adapted to the evolving needs of people affected by cancer, offering a truly personalised approach that makes a tangible difference in their lives. We look forward to continuing this crucial work for many years to come.”
The Macmillan Beyond Diagnosis service supports people across Nottingham City and most of Nottinghamshire. For many, it’s their first contact with non-clinical cancer support, demonstrating its reach and importance in the community. The service is available through self-referral or via healthcare professionals.
