Isle of Man chemotherapy helpline launched

A 24-hour telephone helpline for people affected by cancer has been launched in the Isle of Man.

The service is for island-based patients undergoing chemotherapy at Clatter Bridge Hospital in Merseyside.

The Manx health department said it would be manned by experienced nurses offering support and advice, outside normal hospital working hours.

A health spokesman said the helpline can also help carers deal with the side effects of chemotherapy treatment.

He added: "The advice given could help avoid unnecessary visits to Noble's Hospital or GP practices whilst offering reassurance to patients and their carers."

The helpline service (0151 334 1155) has been available to patients in the UK for about three years.

All new patients, said the hospital, would be issued with contact information.