A new service for people living with cancer is being launched in Kingston, in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support and the Clinical Commissioning Group.

The Macmillan Social Prescribing Service will give practical, emotional and personal support to cancer patients, as well as improve access to services like employment or benefit advice, career support, counselling and activities like yoga, gardening groups and community choirs.

Dr Naz Jivani, chairman of Kingston CCG said: “Often people, following the diagnosis of cancer, have their lives turned upside down. The support that is provided by the Macmillan Social Prescribing can help, in some way, to create some stability and support in their lives and the lives of their carers.

“Kingston CCG’s partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support is providing the support for patients and carers living with and beyond cancer.”

The service will initially be available to people registered at the Berrylands Surgery, Brunswick Surgery, Canbury Medical Practice, Central Surgery, Langley Medical Practice, but it is hoped to be rolled out borough-wide.

Cancer patients, family members or carers can access the social prescribing scheme at the Surbiton Health Centre via referral through GP practices, hospitals and by self-referral.

For further information, access criteria or a referral form, call 07795 334 941 or email kingston.socialprescribing@nhs.net.