An appeal has been launched for anyone affected by cancer in Bolton to join a volunteer service user group to help inform - and improve - local cancer services.
Bolton People Affected by Cancer (Bolton PAC) is a group of people who have been affected by cancer that want to help monitor and encourage positive change to cancer services in the local area.
Following a campaign over 10 years ago the group remain one of the strategic partners of the Bolton Macmillan Cancer Information & Support Service, along with Bolton Hospice, NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership and Macmillan. The service also works closely with NHS Bolton Foundation Trust and Bolton Council.
Over the last eight years the service has grown, and it now needs to recruit more Bolton Pac representatives to join the existing group.
The group is calling for people affected by cancer, particularly ones that have recently been through treatment, and includes their families and carers.
Two focus groups are being held about the current ‘Health and Wellbeing’ offer in Bolton, and the group is appealing for local views.
The events will be held on Wednesday, 21st June, 6.30pm – 8pm, at The Wellbeing Hub at Bolton Hospice, and on Tuesday, 11th July, 1pm – 3pm, at the Hindu forum, unit 28 Market Place, Bolton. Free lunch will be provided so booking is essential.
Kelly Gordon, facilitator of Bolton PAC Group and deputy manager of the Macmillan Cancer Information & Support Service, said: “Service Users are central to the success of the service. We are looking for enthusiastic people to join the group and help to continue to make a positive impact and help shape cancer services locally.
“Our aim is to ensure that the views and opinions of people of Bolton, whose lives have been affected by a cancer diagnosis, are used for improving people’s care and for shaping future cancer services.”
Training will be offered by Macmillan, and no special qualifications or experience are needed to volunteer for the group, but people who are enthusiastic about wanting to improve cancer services are urged to apply.
Anyone interested in becoming a Bolton PAC Member, or for more information about the role and recruitment process, can contact Kelly Gordon on 01204 462442 / 01204 663059, or email boltoncancerinfo@nhs.net
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