New technology has allowed cancer patients in Shetland to join in with support meetings on the Scottish mainland.
Clan Cancer Support in Lerwick recently took delivery of a smart TV which will allow people affected by cancer to virtually join support groups taking place at the charity’s Aberdeen base.
The new system will allow clients to access to specialist support previously only available on the mainland, in addition to the existing service in Shetland.
It was been possible thanks to a generous donation from Clan client Liz Kerr, who attends the charity’s myeloma support group in Shetland, and local business George Robertson Ltd.
Iona Mitchell, Clan Cancer Support’s head of cancer support services, said “One of Clan’s key aims is to reduce the impact of a cancer diagnosis on people who live in remote or rural locations. Travelling to access information and support can be difficult both in terms of time and financial implications.
“By developing the technology we use, we can work to ensure that our specialist support services are as accessible as possible.”
She added: “This is only the starting point for CLAN however. Our intention is to develop our use of technology across our community bases and work to really break down the barriers for those in rural locations and ensure support and information can be accessed as easily as possible.”