Cancer Research UK offers translation service for people affected by cancer

Cancer Research UKJan 21 2010

Cancer Research UK's cancer information nurses are launching a translation service.

Thanks to a partnership with Language Line - who interpret telephone conversations in over 170 languages - people affected by cancer who need an interpreter can now have their questions answered.

Many people have questions or worries about cancer at times other than when they are in hospital. Often they find talking to an independent organisation like Cancer Research UK helpful and reassuring.

Along with answering questions about cancer and its treatment, the nurses help people to understand and cope with the emotional impact of being diagnosed with cancer.

The service will be free to use and callers will receive the same confidential help and support as those speaking directly to the team of nurses.

Martin Ledwick, head of the cancer information nurses at Cancer Research UK, said: "We're delighted that we can now offer this service.

"Being diagnosed with cancer can be a difficult and confusing time, so patients and their families are bound to have questions.

"For people who have difficulty understanding and speaking English, having cancer can be even more confusing, so it's important that they have somewhere to go to get information and support.

"Now, anyone who has questions about cancer can call our nurses on 0808 800 4040, and if you need to talk to us through an interpreter let us know when you call. We'll then connect to Language Line and have a conversation through a qualified interpreter."

The cancer information nurses offer a confidential service and will answer any question about any aspect of any cancer. All the nurses have at least three years cancer nursing experience. They have ongoing training and education to make sure they keep right up to date with developments in cancer treatment and care.

The nurses respond to around 10,000 enquiries per year by telephone, email and letter. They can be contacted by phone by calling their freephone number on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Or send them a question using this online form.