CANCER care at Great Western Hospital could change in response to feedback from patients and their loved ones.

A new patient group will be launched next month, giving patients and family members the chance to influence how doctors and nurses approach cancer care.

Doctors say that the group will allow them to ensure that care is of the “highest standard”.

The Swindon Cancer Partnership Group, which has its first meeting on February 21, will give patients a place to talk about their own treatment – and talk to doctors about how hospital care could be improved.

Lyndel Moore, cancer nurse consultant at the Marlborough Road hospital, said: "This new group will provide local people with a forum in which they can have their voices at the very heart of the services we provide.

"By listening to, and acting upon, the views of people affected by cancer, we are able to continually make the changes and improvements that will ensure our care is always of the highest standard. 

"Our overall aim is for local people, who have lived the cancer journey, to have a hand in influencing the quality of the care and treatment given to others like them.

"Whether it's feeding back directly, taking part in focus groups or just filling out questionnaires, those people coming along can be involved in as much or as little as they like."

The Swindon Cancer Partnership Group will meet at the Cherwell Education Room, Great Western Hospital, on Wednesday, February 21, 3.15pm-4.45pm.

For more, contact the GWH cancer team by calling 01793 646152 or emailing gwh.gwhcancerpartnership@nhs.net.