Macmillan Information Centre has received more than £150,000 in funding from Macmillan Cancer Support

The Macmillan Information Centre at The James Cook University Hospital received over £150,000 in funding from Macmillan Cancer Support to enhance its services for cancer patients in Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland.

This funding led to the creation of two new Macmillan cancer support worker roles as part of a two-year pilot program aimed at bringing the center’s services closer to patients.

The new roles were filled by Yasmin Adamson and Ginette Draper, who were already part of the South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust team. They were tasked with proactively supporting cancer patients in hospital wards, homes, and community settings, offering guidance on a variety of topics, including financial assistance and emotional support. Their role ensured that patients had access to vital information and care tailored to their needs.

Since starting their roles, Yasmin and Ginette received positive feedback from both patients and staff for their efforts in delivering face-to-face, email, and telephone support. Their work focused not only on providing emotional assistance but also on ensuring that those affected by cancer received comprehensive and accurate information when they needed it most.

In addition to their support on wards, Yasmin and Ginette visited patients in their homes, offering guidance and assistance while ensuring patients were referred to appropriate clinical staff when necessary. Their role played a crucial part in ensuring patients felt supported throughout their cancer journey, both emotionally and informationally.

About Yasmin Adamson

Yasmin Adamson began her career seven years ago as a Macmillan volunteer, where she found great fulfillment in working with cancer patients. She loved every moment of supporting individuals through their cancer journey, which ignited her passion for helping others in a healthcare setting.

After her time as a volunteer, Yasmin secured a position as a ward clerk at James Cook University Hospital. Over the next five years, she gained invaluable experience in a fast-paced hospital environment, interacting with patients and supporting clinical staff. Her dedication and hard work were recognized when she received an internal award for going above and beyond in her role, demonstrating her commitment to providing excellent care.

Yasmin’s background in volunteering and her experience as a ward clerk have made her well-equipped for her current role as a Macmillan cancer support worker. Her career journey highlights her deep-rooted passion for helping cancer patients and her continued growth within the healthcare.

About Ginette Draper

Ginette Draper began her NHS career in 2006 as a staff nurse, a role she thoroughly enjoyed. During this time, she had the opportunity to work on various wards, where she met many incredible patients and families, deepening her passion for healthcare and patient care.

After taking some time out from her nursing career, Ginette returned to the South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in 2015, where she transitioned into an administrative role. Her passion for working with patients led her to a position as a receptionist/administrator at the Trinity Holistic Centre, where she worked closely with cancer patients, providing support and assisting with administrative tasks.

Ginette’s diverse experience in both clinical and administrative settings has provided her with a strong foundation for her current role as a Macmillan cancer support worker. Her dedication to supporting cancer patients and her ability to connect with them in different capacities reflect her ongoing commitment to improving patient care.

Macmillan Cancer Support