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Improving cancer care in rural areas
05/08/2008
A new programme of support for people who have cancer in remote and rural areas was formally launched by the First Minister at Maggie's Highland Centre today.
The new programme is designed to help those who live in remote areas of the islands, Highlands and Moray, without easy access to a Maggie's Centre.
The First Minister helped launch Maggie's three-day programme, which includes sessions on stress management, expressive writing, yoga and the work of Macmillan Citizen Advice Bureau.
The aim of Maggie's Centres is to help people with cancer to be as healthy in mind and body as possible and enable them to make their own contribution to their medical treatment and recovery.
First Minister Alex Salmond said:
"The Scottish Government recognises the excellent work of Maggie's Centres in providing support and assistance to people with cancer and also their families, friends and carers.
"Around 27,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in Scotland each year, which is why this disease is a national clinical priority for the Scottish Government.
"I am delighted to help Maggie's Highland launch their new three-day programme which offers support for those living in remote and rural areas.
"This new programme will provide a variety of sessions which aim to provide cancer patients with the tools and techniques to cope with the devastating affect the disease can have on their lives.
"Cancer will affect us all at some point in our lives, whether as a patient, carer, friend or family, and this why Maggie's has such a valuable role in providing information, psychological and emotional support in partnership with local NHS Boards."