Reshaping cancer support and earning national recognition
A team at St Bartholomew’s Hospital has been recognised for transforming psychological support for people living with cancer, after being shortlisted for a Macmillan Professional Excellence Awards honour.
The Cancer Psychological Services team has redesigned how care is delivered, expanding beyond the main cancer centre and embedding support across several hospital sites. The new approach brings help closer to patients, making it easier for more people to access the support they need.
Working closely with colleagues, patients and local services, the team co-designed a more flexible model of care. This includes one-to-one clinical psychology, art psychotherapy, neuropsychology assessments, and workshops that combine guided psychological support with opportunities to connect with others facing similar experiences.
The changes are already making a difference. Patients who may previously have struggled to access support, such as those needing care closer to home or interpreter services, are now able to receive more timely and inclusive care.
The team continues to refine the service by listening to feedback and building strong relationships across hospital sites. They are also strengthening links with cancer teams, palliative care and local talking therapies to improve the overall patient experience and outcomes.
Clinical Psychologist Maggie Karanasiou said:
A lot of people call it a lifeline. Having psychological support helps people with cancer to navigate this really turbulent time and find ways to cope.
The shortlisting recognises the team’s commitment to improving access, collaboration and compassionate care for patients and their families.