A new psychological support service for people with cancer has been launched by the Irish Cancer Society (ICS), the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Cancer Care West.

An estimated 170,000 people in Ireland are currently living with cancer, along with their families and carers, and more than one-third will require some kind of emotional or psychological support at any given time.

Together 4 Cancer Concern aims to provide "a virtual community of care" for people who are struggling with the emotional and psychological effects of living with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is a free and confidential service that can be accessed nationwide through the ICS's Nurseline at 1800 200 700. It includes a panel of experienced cancer counsellors, with connections to community cancer support centres across the country, and a team of clinical psychologists from Cancer Care West.

The service was developed as a result of an increase in reported levels of distress among cancer patients about COVID-19, with many querying how they could get mental health support when they do not have normal access to GPs and Emergency Departments (EDs).

"Cancer patients are used to living with uncertainty from the time they are diagnosed. The emergence of COVID-19 has added another layer of stress as cancer patients know that they may be in a higher risk group if they develop the virus.

"Added to this are the effects of isolation and cocooning, a completely unnatural way for people to live in 2020," explained Louise Mullen, head of cancer survivorship at the NCCP, Dr Helen Greally, director of psychology and support services at Cancer Care West and Donal Buggy, director of services at the ICS.

They said that with this service, cancer patients, their families and their carers, can access support from cancer nurses, their local cancer support centre staff, counsellors or clinical psychologists, depending on the issue they are struggling with.

"We know there are many concerns and struggles that cancer patients and their families are having at this time of the COVID-19 national emergency. Healthcare professionals, community cancer support centres and patient groups have identified the need for professional counselling and psychological support during this time of crisis. Together 4 Cancer Concern is an essential part of supporting this vulnerable group," they added.

To access the Together 4 Cancer Concern team, call the ICS Nurseline on 1800 200 700 or email cancernurseline@irishcancer.ie.

The Nurseline is open seven days a week, from 9am to 8pm, Monday to Thursday, and from 9am to 5pm, Friday to Sunday.