Rotary Clubs and Hospitals Charity fund new cancer psychotherapist

Cheryl Harrison has joined Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to provide dedicated one-to-one emotional and psychological support throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery. As well as helping patients and families access other services provided by the NHS, charities and community organisations.

As part of the Cancer Psychology Team, the role will help raise awareness of the importance of emotional wellbeing and ensure patients receive the support, compassion and reassurance they need at every stage of their cancer care.

Cheryl has extensive experience of supporting people with their wellbeing and is committed to helping those coping with the emotional impact of cancer.

“A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, both for patients and for the people closest to them. I want to make sure people feel supported through the emotional challenges that can arise during and after treatment.”

“I am delighted to take on this role, helping patients access the psychological support they need. Emotional wellbeing is an important part of cancer care, and no one should feel they have to cope alone.”

The role has been funded by Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity in partnership with the Rotary Clubs of District 1100. The clubs have raised more than £220,000 for the Charity’s Big Space Cancer Appeal. The appeal is raising money for a new cancer centre at Cheltenham General Hospital, which has recently been granted planning permission.

Twenty-seven clubs across Gloucestershire, Hereford, and Worcestershire have come together to support the appeal through fundraising and volunteering, a reflection of the Rotary’s shared commitment to improving cancer care.

Members have taken part in a wide range of fundraising activities to achieve this remarkable total, with donations continuing to this day. Rotary International has also provided a global grant to fund clear and accessible information and videos, helping patients understand the support available to them.

As well as offering specialist psychological support to patients and families, Cheryl will provide training for staff and help improve links between NHS teams, charities, volunteers and community organisations.

She will work closely with the Cancer Services Team and the Lead Cancer Nurse to improve support and help create a lasting legacy for the future of cancer care.

Kevin McNamara, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said, “More than 5,000 people begin cancer treatment at our hospitals each year. We want every patient to receive the emotional and practical support they need alongside excellent medical care.”

“We are immensely grateful to the Rotary clubs and our Hospitals Charity whose fundraising and partnership have made this important new role possible.”

Cheryl’s work will make a real difference to people affected by cancer and those closest to them. It will also strengthen the support available across our hospitals and communities. This is a powerful example of what we can achieve by working together."