Boost For Cancer Patient Support As A New 'Train The Trainer' Programme Gets Underway

A new training programme designed to help improve the way in which education and support is delivered to people affected by cancer has been launched, with help from funding from West  Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance.

Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust has launched 'Train The Trainer', designed to help those with experience in delivering cancer patient training and education who are looking to improve and extend their skills.

'Train The 'Trainer' is also designed to help those not currently involved but who are keen to develop the competence and confidence to do so.

Among those being targeted to take part in the training are volunteers, hospice staff and hospital-based cancer care co-ordinator, who may benefit from additional training to help with locally-delivered patient health and wellbeing support.

Around 85,949 people diagnosed between 1995 and 2017 are living with and beyond cancer in West Yorkshire and Harrogate. Many of these people living with a cancer diagnosis are older and may have other health conditions too.As well as dealing with the physical and psychological effects of a cancer diagnosis, many people face other  difficulties such as worry and depression. Some people may have difficulty returning to work and experience financial concerns as well as relationship and family issues, as well as possibly facing long term side effects of cancer treatment.

The Cancer Alliance Living With and Beyond Cancer programme seeks to ensure those living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis receive the help and support they need to live as full, healthy and active a life as possible during and after cancer treatment. This care and support will vary from person to person and should be tailored to their own specific needs and those of their family and loved ones. 'Train The Trainer' 

The funding is part of a Patient Education Bursary set up by the Cancer Alliance last year. 

The first training event will be held online will be held on 23rd April 2021. Participants will be trained in effective communications; in how to put together effective presentations and in how to build their own confidence in delivering sessions . they will also learn how to maintain the interest of people in groups by encouraging participation, listening and handling questions and answers effectively.

For more information about Train The Trainer and how to book, contact Heather Milner, CHFT Cancer Team Secretary by email Heather.Milner@nhs.net or by phone 01484 343490 or 07788 779650.

Please note - early booking is recommended as places are limited.