Maggie’s Manchester Sees Overwhelming Success with New pre-Treatment Program
Manchester, UK – [date] – Maggie’s manchester has reported remarkable success with its “Getting Started” program, a new initiative designed to support individuals begining cancer treatment. The program, developed in collaboration with The Christie, has demonstrably boosted patient confidence and improved access to Maggie’s services, particularly for underrepresented groups.
Since its launch, the “Getting Started” program has seen 84% of attendees report increased confidence in managing their treatment and its side effects. Furthermore, a perfect 100% of participants have recommended the session to others. The charity has also observed a notable advancement in equitable access to its Manchester center, with more individuals from diverse backgrounds engaging with the program.The “Getting Started” initiative is now being expanded to all 24 Maggie’s centers nationwide. Robin Muir, centre Head at Maggie’s Manchester, expressed enthusiasm for the program’s impact. “We’re so pleased to be working closely with The Christie to improve the support on offer for people beginning cancer treatment,” Muir stated. “Feedback so far has been really positive, with people saying they have a better understanding of what will happen during treatment, and what they can do to look after themselves, while families have said they feel much more involved in the process. And not only do those attending receive pre-information treatment, but they are also introduced to our services so they know they can always return for further support.”
Gemma Jones, Lead Nurse SACT Services at The Christie, highlighted the program’s importance in addressing the often overwhelming nature of initial cancer treatments. “We have an extremely busy department, delivering high volumes of chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments six days a week, so people can find coming in for their first treatment quite overwhelming,” Jones explained. “Getting Started means that patients can meet one of our nurses and one of our healthcare assistants ahead of time, which can help. It’s vitally important to provide protected time and space for reassurance and queries to be answered, helping patients to attend to feel more physically and mentally prepared.”
Jones also emphasized the value of peer support facilitated by the program. “Peer support is also important, and the sessions give patients a chance to meet other people going through treatment for cancer in a relaxed and non-clinical setting.”
