Barts Health NHS Trust, home to London’s second largest cancer unit, is introducing a new workplace cancer support training programme in collaboration with national charity Cancer Support UK. This innovative initiative, titled Communicating about Cancer, is a 35-45 minute online course designed to equip the Trust’s 21,000-strong diverse workforce with the skills to support colleagues facing a cancer diagnosis.
Empowering Barts Health staff
Andrea McDonnell, Deputy Director of the Barts Health Education Academy, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Cancer Support UK on this essential training for our staff. The programme will enhance their ability to support one another while fostering a greater awareness of staff wellbeing across our teams.”
The training will be made available to staff across Barts Health’s five hospitals through the Trust’s internal education platform, ensuring easy access for all.
For a broader perspective on integrating cancer support into your workplace wellbeing strategy, read this insightful article: Integrating Cancer Support Into Your Holistic Wellbeing Strategy.
Why workplace cancer support matters
Mark Guymer, CEO of Cancer Support UK, highlighted the significance of the partnership:
“Our e-learning programme is a perfect fit for Barts Health, recognising the critical importance of emotional support for both employees and patients. This partnership is a testament to the growing recognition of the need for workplace cancer support, particularly as more people continue to work while living with a cancer diagnosis.”
Bart’s Health commitment to excellence
Barts Health, known for its excellence in care, serves 2.5 million patients in East London, with 6,200 treated daily. Cancer Support UK, renowned for providing practical and emotional support to those living with cancer, continues its mission to empower workplaces through this unique training module.
Practical tools for supporting colleagues
The Communicating about Cancer e-learning tool aims to raise awareness, improve understanding of the impact of cancer, and provide practical communication skills for handling sensitive conversations. Additionally, it offers signposting to further resources, helping staff support their colleagues more effectively.
Additionally, learn more about practical ways to support employees dealing with cancer in the workplace by exploring this feature: How Can You Support Your Employees Working With Cancer? Practical Tips.
For more information on Cancer Support UK’s workplace training, visit www.cancersupportuk.org/workplace-training or email [email protected].
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