Advice and support regarding Covid-19

 

This page contains information and links to local support regarding Covid-19 from Ipswich Hospital Cancer Helpline, St Elizabeth Hospice and local community groups.

Links are provided to extensive guidance from Macmillan and on shielding from the UK Government of particular relevance for those affected by a cancer diagnosis.

For information on vaccination for Covid-19 refer to guidance from Macmillan and to the local vaccination programme.

This page will be updated regularly. Last update March 2023.

 

Ipswich Hospital Cancer Helpline

In January 2021 Ipswich Hospital relaunched the helpline for patients with a cancer diagnosis which was in place during some of 2020. The service is operated from the John Le Vay Cancer Support and Information Centre. Further information is available at this link. In addition, please note that if Nurse Specialists are unavailable, their phone lines may be transferred to the helpline.

Tel: 01473 703008 (9am - 4pm Monday - Friday)

NB: Patients who fall unwell while on chemotherapy should call the number listed on their chemotherapy alert cards (Acute Oncology Service).

 

Macmillan: information and guidance

Macmillan has published an extensive range of information and guidance about coronavirus which is available at this link. Topics available include:

 

St Elizabeth Hospice

St Elizabeth Hospice has published a summary showing how services offered have been affected by the covid-19 pandemic. Please check the website for up-to-date information (including advice on visiting the Hospice and emotional & bereavement support).

 

Suffolk and North-east Essex Covid-19 Vaccination Programme

This website provides local information about the vaccination programme, including eligibility criteria, how to make an appointment, attending the appointment and much more.

 

Support in your community

If you are in need of help with shopping, collecting medication or feel that you would benefit from a friendly phone call, people in towns and villages across the county have set up organisations to provide practical support. Please refer to information that can be found on our “Support in your community” page.