West Dunbartonshire Carers’ service gives out lifeline of support

A SERVICE that provides vital support to West Dunbartonshire cancer patients has helped around 800 people since its launch.

The Macmillan Carers Service was established six years ago to help people affected by cancer to stay in their own home.

Funded by Macmillan Cancer Support with grants totalling £665,000, the service also provides support and respite to those who are caring for a relative or friend.

The service is under the spotlight as part of Carers’ Week, June 8 to 14 and those who benefit have been quick to praise their carers.

Seventy-seven-year-old Christina Dunion, who was diagnosed with lung cancer two years ago, is visited twice a week at her Alexandria home by her carer.

She said: “My carer takes me out and we’ll go shopping or maybe get something to eat.

“If we’re in the house, she’ll make me a cup of tea or do my washing. It’s such a great help.

“As I’m in the house an awful lot, I really enjoy the company as well. I don’t know what I would do without her.”

Since its launch, the service has developed to provide palliative care, social and psychological support via its 12 professional carers, which helps to avoid unnecessary admission to hospital or residential care.

A diagnosis can also be life-changing for the family of a cancer patient and the service aims to support relatives or friends who suddenly find themselves in the role of carer.

Rose O’Malley, 69, has been looking after her husband Patrick, 74, at their Dumbarton home since he was diagnosed with throat cancer four years ago.

As a result of his treatment, Patrick now uses a wheelchair to get around and is dependent on his wife.

Rose said: “Our carer Jim Drummond comes in twice a week for two and a half hours which is just brilliant. This gives me the chance to get into town and get my messages or just take a break.

“As well as looking after Patrick’s personal needs, Jim will sit and talk to Patrick about football or take him out if the weather’s fine. It’s a big help to me.”

The Macmillan Carers Service, which is run in partnership with West Dunbartonshire Council, was recently highly commended in a report by the Social Work Inspection Agency.

Macmillan Carers Service home care organiser Shona Brown said: “This is such a worthwhile service for people with cancer and their carers.

“We work closely with our health colleagues to provide a helpful, friendly service that enables people with cancer to stay at home.”

For further information about the Macmillan Carers Service call 01389 608010.