Great Western Hospital has introduced a new role aimed to help support patients diagnosed with cancer.

Volunteers, called Cancer Buddies, will have had a personal diagnosis themselves or experience of caring for someone suffering from the disease within the last five years.

The aim is for Cancer Buddies to use their own experience and knowledge to offer practical tips, lend a listening ear, provide guidance and show understanding and compassion to newly diagnosed people. 

Macmillan personalised care clinical nurse Michelle Taylor said: “Some patients being treated for cancer can feel quite isolated or they might not have a good support network – and this has been more challenging due to the pandemic. 

“Being able to have someone who can offer that extra bit of support will make a real difference and will hopefully improve the overall experience of cancer care at GWH.”

Voluntary services manager Vickie Hayes added: “We are excited to be promoting a targeted recruitment campaign for this new and very worthwhile role. 

“We believe that the volunteer Cancer Buddy role will be a welcome addition to the care the Trust offers to cancer patients and we are glad that our volunteers are there to enhance the services the Trust provides.”

The hospital trust is now looking for people who want offer their time to be Cancer Buddies. To apply for the voluntary position, visit bit.ly/3FrE1tu