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Support
There are a number of different types of support available to patients and relatives affected by colorectal cancer. There is support available to cover both practical and emotional issues.
Colorectal specialist nursesThe colorectal specialist nurses offer a comprehensive service of support, advice and education for all patients with colorectal disease. Patients and their families/carers will be offered guidance by the team from the first clinic visit to surgery (if required) and then at follow up.
The team have expertise in a variety of fields such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, stoma care and benign functional bowel disease.
All patients have an identified key worker, who ensures that an appropriate level of information is given regarding the diagnosis and any treatment modality.
The team are presently based across two sites, St James University Hospital (SJUH) and Leeds General Infirmary (LGI).
To contact the SJUH team, telephone 0113 2065535
To contact the LGI team, telephone 0113 3926383General Practitioner
Your General Practitioner is very important member of the team treating your cancer. You will often know them better than any of the other doctors that you come across and they will know you better. They will also be able to access many services which will help you. All members of the hospital team treating you will be in regular correspondence with your GP so they will be able to help clarify anything that you are unsure about and to keep track of your treatment.
Support Organisations
There are a large number of organisations available that give support to patients with colorectal cancer and their relatives. At St James’s Hospital is the Robert Ogdeon Centre; this is a centre which provides a wide range of support services on a drop in basis. It is open daily 10am - 4pm. The centre can be contacted on 0113 2066498 or 2066499.
Macmillan Cancer Support - A national cancer support charity.
Macmillan Cancer Support West Yorkshire
Cancer Research UK - A list of colorectal cancer support services and their websites
Financial
Being ill with cancer can be a financially difficult. There are a range of financial benefits and financial support available to patients with cancer.
Cancer Backup - information on financial issues to do with cancer.
Macmillan Cancer Support - information on gaining financial assistance
Department of Work and Pensions - Information on services and benefits available