The new Improving the Cancer Journey (ICJ) service at NHS Orkney

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Rosalind Spence and Gareth Flett - ICJ Link Workers

We have now launched our new service, Improving the Cancer Journey (ICJ), in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support which aims to support everyone living in Orkney affected by cancer with their non-clinical needs, this is in addition to all of the existing clinical support provided.

The ICJ service will support people with accessing services for their non-clinical needs, support may include:

  • Discussing with local teams that can help with money or housing worries and benefits
  • Caring or work responsibilities
  • Connecting with those that can support with addressing physical concerns
  • Accessing complimentary therapies
  • Helping with emotional concerns, connecting with wellbeing support and services
  • Accessing information to answer questions or concerns about cancer and treatment

When people access the ICJ service, a Holistic Needs Assessment will be offered which helps to determine what matters most to the person, this includes questions not just about cancer but practicalities, financial or physical concerns and emotional or spiritual care. Following this, an ICJ Link Worker will have a meaningful conversation to discuss their needs and concerns. Based on the assessment and conversations with the Link Worker, a support plan will be created to make sure the person affected by cancer is offered all the support they need.

The ICJ service can be accessed by telephone, Near Me and face-to-face appointments. There are two referral forms for accessing the service, a self-referral for patients and a referral for professionals to complete on behalf of patients. These forms can be found here, NHS Orkney – ICJ Service, by emailing ork.icj@nhs.scotor by calling NHS Orkney Public Health department on 01858 888084. Once the form is complete, it should be submitted by email to ork.icj@nhs.scot.

Daria Byers, ICJ Service Lead at NHS Orkney said: “Within ICJ, we understand that a cancer diagnosis affects every aspect of your life, not just the medical side. That’s why our new ICJ service is dedicated to supporting anyone in Orkney affected by cancer with the non-clinical challenges they face. Whether it’s navigating financial concerns, accessing emotional support or managing everyday responsibilities, our ICJ Link Workers will provide a compassionate and practical service to support people through their cancer journey.”

Laura Skaife-Knight, Chief Executive at NHS Orkney said: “I’m pleased we are now able to offer this important service for our patients and community in addition to the incredible work that is already undertaken by all of our Macmillan colleagues. Recognising that there are over 160 cancer diagnosis a year across Orkney, it is vital that our services serve our community appropriately. If you think you would benefit from this service please do get in touch via the routes above.”

Pictured are Rosalind Spence and Gareth Flett, two team members of this new service.