Cancer Support Workers

Macmillan Cancer Support Workers (CSWs) are part of the cancer care team at Musgrove Park Hospital and Yeovil Hospital and work alongside Clinical Nurse Specialists, Consultants and other health professionals. They support people who have just been given a cancer diagnosis, who are currently going through treatment as well as patients who are living with or beyond cancer. Macmillan CSWs are not clinically trained but can support with all non-medical needs.

After a cancer diagnosis Macmillan CSWs work with patients and carers to identify and address any non-clinical worries or concerns helping them to live well.

Macmillan CSWs provide support face to face, over the telephone or via email.

Macmillan CSWs can provide a Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) providing patients with an opportunity to identify any thoughts or concerns they have and not just their medical needs.

Macmillan CSWs can also signpost patients to help and support such as:

• who their cancer specialists are
• where to get help with financial concerns
• advice on transport options
• links to community services and voluntary organisations
• emotional wellbeing

You can find some useful information about charities who offer support depending on your cancer diagnosis on our Useful links page, and there are local Support groups on this page Local Support Groups.

You can contact your Macmillan CSWs direct at Musgrove Park Hospital or Yeovil District Hospital by telephoning the numbers or using the emails below.  If you are not sure who your CSW is, or your cancer site is not listed, please use the general email address, and we will be able to direct you.  Please be aware that your CSW may not work full time hours.