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Home > Our services > Cancer Services > Macmillan Information and Support Service

Macmillan Information and Support Service

Macmillan 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 support service is in the Swan Centre in the purple zone of the Queen Elizabeth hospital. The centre provides a confidential drop-in service for anyone affected 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

Staffed by Macmillan professionals, we are able to provide:

  • 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 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 support and information 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. The advisor can support with benefits, universal credit, and grants.

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 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 Information and Support?

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

How do I access Macmillan Information and Support Centre?

The Macmillan Information and Support centre 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 see here.

I have a query about transport to and from my hospital appointment, who do I speak to?Macmillan Information and Support Centre 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 Information and Support, 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 Information and Support Centre 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 us on 0808 808 00 00 (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 Information and Support Centre, we can support with it. 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 Information and Support Centre, 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]

How can I volunteer?

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

Where can I access support locally for myself and my family?

Macmillan Information and Support can signpost you to the most suitable option available. Here is a list of our local charities:

Who can help me if I need advice on finances and benefits? Here at Macmillan Information and Support, 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 Information and Support Centre.

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 is a charity that provides 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 is a charity, which enables individuals to find support groups and information local to their area.                                                                           

Age UK can provide support with:

• Befriending and listening service

• Bereavement listening support

• Handy person – to help around the home

• Lasting power of attorney

• Funeral arrangements 

• Looking after pets at times of health or other emergencies

Contacting the service

Telephone 0191 445 2979
Email [email protected]