It’s why we’re here to care for anyone living with cancer, or supporting someone else, as we get through this – together at every step.
Coronavirus restrictions remain in place across the country. In England:
The government has announced that shielding will end on 31st March 2021. This applies to everyone in England who has previously been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable. If you are in this group, you will previously have received a letter from the NHS or from your GP telling you this. You may have been advised to shield in the past.
For more information visit Gov.uk
You are eligible to a free NHS test if at least one of the following applies:
You may need to get tested if you’re due to have surgery or a procedure.
This is a challenge for so many cancer patients and their families and although Weston Park and many other cancer units never stopped treatments completely, some procedures were delayed, and some patients might have been delayed in starting a treatment. It’s important you come for all your hospital treatments when you are asked to and your doctor will discuss your treatment at your appointment (face to face or telephone clinic) and you will be able to decide this together.
You and your family should follow government guidelines with regards to social isolation. If your appointment is due whilst you are self-isolating due to COVID 19 symptoms please contact the department that you would be attending for advice.
If you’re worried that symptoms you’re experiencing could be cancer, you can call and speak to one of our healthcare professionals. If appropriate, you will be advised to make an appointment with your GP, where services are running and your GP can decide how best to safely investigate your concerns.
The government advises that people should try to wear a face mask in enclosed spaces; including on public transport or whilst shopping. In the context of the coronavirus outbreak, a face covering is something which safely covers the nose and mouth. You can buy reusable or single-use face coverings. You may also use a scarf, bandana, religious garment or hand-made cloth covering but these must securely fit round the side of the face. However, there are some circumstances where people may not be able to wear a face covering, including medical reasons.
If you need to you can speak to our healthcare professionals about a face exemption card – just call 0114 553 3330 – or for more information about face masks visit the gov.uk website >
You have to meet certain eligibility rules to form a support or childcare bubble. This means not everyone will be able to form a bubble.
A support bubble is a support network which links two households. You can form a support bubble with another household of any size only if you meet the eligibility rules.
It is against the law to form a support bubble if you do not follow these rules.
There is separate guidance for support bubbles and childcare bubbles >
There are lots of healthcare professionals working very hard to make sure treatment is delivered in the context of coronavirus. Staff have made a lot of changes at the hospital and these are directed at keeping you as safe as possible.
“There was certainly a difference in the hospital from when I was there previously in January to have my Radiotherapy. On my visit I attended the 4th floor, then onto X-ray and then onto Pharmacy. I think I saw around ten patients as I was walking around. Without as many patients around, this all seemed very strange.”
While some consultations may now be completed in a different manner, it is imperative that you continue to get the healthcare you deserve. So please, help us help you, by continuing to follow the national guidance and to contact your GP or medical team if: You are a cancer patient who is worried about a developing problem, you are someone who is concerned they have the signs and symptoms of cancer. These include: Bleeding (that doesn’t come from an obvious injury), lumps, weight loss, any continued or prolonged pain or you have any other serious concerns about your health.