A new cancer support telephone service has experienced a huge surge in demand from hundreds of worried people seeking advice and reassurance.
After temporarily closing all of its centres because of the coronavirus pandemic, Clan Cancer Support has now established a one-to-one line across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, Orkney and Shetland.
More than 500 people rang the hotline in its first week, including those who have a cancer diagnosis, their partners and relatives, and those who are recently bereaved.
Clan’s head of services, Iona Mitchell said: “We are pleased that our team is able to continue to offer our vital support services in the community, as we know this is an extremely difficult time for those affected by a cancer diagnosis.
“People undergoing treatment for cancer are particularly vulnerable, and whilst self-isolating is a worrying and lonely time for everyone, those with a cancer diagnosis can find it very challenging.”
The charity’s two largest fundraising events due to take place in May have been postponed and the charity has called on the north-east community to help with financial assistance.
Telephone support is based in Aberdeen, Banchory, Crimond, Elgin, Inverurie, Kirkwall and Lerwick, with support teams providing emotional support and professional counselling services.
Last week, the Cancer Research UK charity said it was not clear how cancer care would be affected by the outbreak, and over what timeframe.
