Definition of a network: a group or system of interconnected people or things: The Cancern Network
The Cancern Network is a new network of VCSE organisations dedicated to improving quality-of-life outcomes and providing personalised care and support for anyone affected by cancer in the North East and North Cumbria.
Who are the members of the network?
The network is made up of charitable organisations offering a range of services to meet the different needs of individuals such as: physical care, emotional care, social care, mental care, financial and legal support, and practical support. The VCSE organisations involved have been delivering for many years allowing us to become a hub which will add a continuity of care, with full access and timely help when needed.
What are the network priorities?
The aim is for the network to supplement existing NHS and Local Authority services ensuring effective and regular knowledge transfer. To standardize communications and referrals across the North East and North Cumbria to ensure anyone in the region receives the same level of care.
The network seeks to fulfill the unmet needs of people who are affected by a cancer diagnosis. The recently published Cancer Quality of Life Survey has found that 18 months after diagnosis cancer patients are 1.5 times more likely to have problems with anxiety and depression than that of the general public[1].
As a network the biggest goal is to close this gap and support cancer patients in finding the support they need throughout and after their cancer treatment. The focus is not only those who personally have cancer but is anyone who has been affected by a cancer diagnosis, including family, friends and carers.
Find out more about the network
[1] Cancer quality of life survey: Summary report, Version 1, October 2021