Mental Health Services in the North West

*** COPE Scotland

COPE'S website is full of self-help and self-care information.  https://www.cope-scotland.org/

 

***BEATSON CANCER CARE

Telephone Befriending Service

During the first lockdown, Beatson Cancer Charity started up a volunteer led Telephone Befriending Service.  We saw was an extension to the support we offer patients, family members and carers at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre in Glasgow.  We wanted to continue to support people who have been impacted by cancer whose isolation or loneliness would likely be compounded by COVID restrictions and the fear of catching the virus. Shielding and being stuck at home meant that lots of patients and their loved ones were missing out on emotional support.

We are really proud that we have been able to reach people, to extend the hand of friendship, offer weekly calls, conversation and a bit of comfort, in these exceptional times. Telephone befriending is very important, especially when visiting was severely restricted, and it is important that our telephone befriending volunteers are not afraid to talk about cancer, if that’s what the patient wants.

This service offers someone to listen, a positive conversation and regular contact with one of our volunteers. It is worth noting that this is not an advice line or a crisis helpline.

Referrals should be emailed to befriending@beatsoncancercharity.org or individuals can call us on 0141 212 0505. https://www.beatsoncancercharity.org/how-we-help/wellbeing-services/befriending-service/