Information
The Lothian Improving the Cancer Journey (ICJ) Service is a Macmillan-funded, Link Worker service. ICJ aims to support people with a cancer diagnosis and their family or carers, focusing on non-clinical issues.
Here are some of the things we can offer support with;
- Money or housing issues
- Work
- Caring responsibilities
- Physical concerns
- Emotional concerns
Before meeting with a link worker, the person will be asked to complete a Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) to identify their main concerns. This can also be done with a Link Worker’s help. Link workers will then have a supportive conversation with the person about ‘what matters most to them’ and areas where they would like extra support or advice. Link workers will be able to sign-post or refer to appropriate local services and supports. The Link Worker and the person will co-create a care plan based on their conversation. This will be owned by the person and can be shared with GPs and other health professionals with consent.
How to refer:
· Contact us to refer or give these details to your patient:
Tel no: 0131 537 1500
Email: loth.icj@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk
· If you are a professional referring somebody please use the referral form provided to include; Name, CHI and contact telephone number/email for the person.
· A professional can refer somebody to this service or patients can contact us themselves.
· Our team will be in touch with the person within 3 days and an appointment will be offered within 5-10 days.
· The service is available to anyone 16 years of age and over that is affected by cancer (including family members and carers).
CJ is available for anyone with a cancer diagnosis as well as family/carers and it supports people with any non-clinical issues or concerns that affect their lives. The service aims to provide early intervention to maintain wellbeing, encourage self-management and prevent more serious situations arising.
- Macmillan Helpline Our cancer information advisors offer a listening ear and are ready to talk about whatever matters to you. They can also provide expert cancer information to help you find your best way through. (7 days a week, 8am – 8pm)
- Macmillan Online Community – The Online Community understands what it’s like to have cancer. We are an online cancer forum with 90,000 members: and they have all been there. Support is available 24 hours a day, in a safe environment.
- National Cancer Treatment Helpline 0800 917 7711
