Macmillan Information and Support Service

Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, gives patients access to information on a wide variety of topics other than clinical information.

Who we are and what we do

When you’re living with cancer, having the right kind of information and support at the right time is essential.

The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service is located in the Swan Centre, within the purple zone of Queen Elizabeth Hospital. This centre offers a confidential drop-in service for anyone impacted by cancer.

This includes people who:

require information about cancer
are living with or beyond cancer
are looking to reduce the risks of cancer
are a carer, relative or friend of someone with cancer
are healthcare professionals

How we can help

Macmillan support staff are available to assist you with:

literature on all aspects of living with cancer
the opportunity to discuss treatments, side effects and other cancer-related issues
access to a private room where you can talk to someone in confidence
information and support over the phone or via email

We also offer:

links to local and national support services
signposting to self help and support groups
Staff at the Macmillan Centre are non-clinical however, can provide a link to your clinical teams or specialist

Drop-in facility

The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service in Gateshead is open Monday to Friday 10:00 – 16:00 (excluding Bank Holidays).

We are a drop-in facility, no appointment is necessary.

Referral process

To make a referral or for general enquiries, please contact a member of the team on:

Telephone 0191 445 2979

Email [email protected]

Visit the Macmillan Cancer Support website for further help, advice and support.

Inclusive Macmillan videos

People with cancer, their families and caregivers can now access Macmillan’s new range of easy to understand videos on YouTube. Available in different languages and with BSL signing.

Living with and beyond cancer

The emotional and physical effects of cancer can continue for a long time after treatment has stopped, but our support staff provide a listening ear.

Cancer patients don’t stop feeling the physical end emotional effects of cancer even if they have stopped treatment.

Emotional effects can include:

Physical effects can include:

The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service and other local agencies can help patients manage these effects so they can look forward to the future and get on with life.

More support in what services are available in your area, please contact Macmillan Information and Support Service on the details below. Alternatively, please visit: Homepage – Cancer Care Map or My Wellbeing Space

People affected by cancer often worry about their financial circumstances and may not realise they qualify for specific benefits.

Patients, caregivers, and families affected by cancer often face financial challenges due to decreased income and rising expenses, including travel costs and additional heating needs.

Through our collaboration with Citizens Advice, we can connect you with a specialist who will assist you in identifying the financial support you may be eligible for.

Our benefits adviser can also:

Help with debt problems
Help with means tested and non means tested benefits e.g. benefits for carers and disability benefits
Help with means tested and non means tested benefits e.g. benefits for carers and disability benefits
Help to complete forms and apply for benefits
Help with representation at tribunal and appeals
Negotiate with lenders/reschedule repayments
Advise on arrears which may have accrued for rent, council tax, fuel etc
Explain statutory sick pay and employment pay entitlements
Help with employment problems such as time off work and returning to work
Make referrals for independent financial advice
Help with Blue Badge applications
Help with travel costs

If you require ongoing guidance, the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service can signpost you to someone can. Additionally, you can use the Macmillan Benefits Calculator to get estimates for benefits you may be entitled to.

How do I refer to Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service?

You can refer yourself or someone affected by cancer, by sending your enquiry to [email protected]

How do I access Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service?

The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service is situation in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. To find us, head towards the purple zone. No appointment Is needed.

Where do i find directions to Gateshead Health? Please find directions here.

I have a question regarding transportation to and from my hospital appointment. Who should I contact for assistance? Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service can support with your enquiry. Please contact us on 0191 445 2979 or email, [email protected]

How do I get a blue parking badge? Here at Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, we work in partnership with Gateshead Citizens Advice. We can signpost you to an advisor who can support with a blue parking badge request. Your family member, carer or person who drives you to appointments may be entitled to a blue parking badge. Please contact Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service on 0191 445 2979 or email, [email protected]

Where else can I access cancer Information?

The Macmillan Support Line is a free and confidential phone service for people living and affected by cancer. Please call: 0808 808 00 00. Lines are open 7 days a week, 8am- 8pm).
Macmillan online community is available 24 hours a day providing access to peer support for people affected by cancer.
Cancer Care Map Is a simple, online resource to help find support locally and nationally. Search the map by filtering information by topic and post code.

Who do I speak to about home adaptations? Here at Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, we can support with this query.

Please contact our team on 0191 445 2979 or email, [email protected]

I worry about my pets when I am in hospital, who will care for them?

Here at Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, we can support with your enquiry. Please contact our team on 0191 445 2979 or email, [email protected]. Alternatively, search local services in your area, by clicking here.

Where can I find information about wigs or head dressing? We can signpost you to someone who can support. Please contact our team on 0191 445 2979 or email, [email protected]

I would like to volunteer for Macmillan. Where do I access information?

Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service are not currently advertising for volunteers, however, information about volunteering for Macmillan can be found at: Volunteer involvement | Macmillan Cancer Support

Who can help me if I need advice on finances and benefits? Here at Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, we work in partnership with Gateshead Citizens Advice. We can refer you to a professional who will provide you with information and guidance around benefits and what you are entitled to.

For more information please contact Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service.

Where can i find local cancer information?

Macmillan services local to your area.

FACT Gateshead are a local charity who offer a huge range of support and resources to patients, carers, families and professionals. Service include befriending calls, counselling, social groups and more.

Maggies Newcastle are a charity that provide free expert care and support in centres across the UK and online. Maggies is designed to be a space like a home away from home, for everyone affected by cancer. Services include emotional support, practical support, social support, and side effects of cancer.

CancerCare Map enables individuals to find support groups and information local to their area.

Contacting the service

Telephone 0191 445 2979

Email [email protected]