Welcoming the news, the DUP MP said:

“For some time I have been engaging with the Trust on behalf of local cancer patients who have expressed concern that, with suppressed immune systems, they were sometimes being asked to attend A & E for assessment where the risk of infection may be increased.

I am delighted that the Trust is now in a position to confirm that they are moving forward with a dedicated Assessment space within the Mandeville Unit, to offer that more holistic service to cancer patients who may have had to contact the Helpline seeking advice. This new space will reduce the instances were people will have to attend A & E, which we all know is under extreme pressures with many people having to wait in sometimes crammed conditions.

This enhancement in service is very welcome indeed and I commend the Trust for driving forward with this plan. The cancer journey is one that is difficult, and one filled with anxiety, and any step that can be taken to ease this is very welcome.”