CANCER patients in Southampton have a new tool to help combat the devastation caused by the disease.

Macmillan Cancer Support and Spire Southampton Hospital have joined forces to offer a new service for people living with cancer.

Outreach is a drop-in session held once a month at the hospital, offering vital practical advice regarding financial support, respite for carers and questions about employment.

Provided by Hampshire Macmillan Citizens Advice Service, it takes place on the first Tuesday of every month and is open to all patients, regardless of whether they are being treated at the hospital or not.

Sue Alford, service manager at Hampshire Macmillan Citizens Advice Service, said: “Being diagnosed with cancer is an emotional and often debilitating experience – and money and employment worries are just some of the concerns for patients and their families, friends and carers.

The service is the first of its kind in the south at a private hospital.

Jane Whitney-Smith, Spire Southampton hospital director, added: “We are delighted to be working with Macmillan to offer such an important advice service. And we have specific fundraising efforts planned, that will hopefully raise as much as possible for this vital charity.”

Anyone wishing to speak with a Macmillan Outreach service adviser or make an appointment for the monthly service can call 084 4847 7727 seven days a week.