Today is the first National Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Day. Here at Wessex Cancer Alliance, we want to put a spotlight on the Cancer CNS workforce who support our patients and their families.

The CNS role is a vital source of support to patients, and having access to a CNS is consistently raised as the major factor in improving the experience of patients with a cancer diagnosis.

Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialists have advanced clinical skills and in-depth knowledge of cancer. With excellent communication skills and empathy for patients and their families, they act as a key worker throughout the pathway, and can assess each patient’s individual needs. They offer practical and emotional support, give clear information and advice, and provide support with decision making.

To mark this first day of national recognition, we have met and spoken with CNS colleagues from across the Alliance, as well as patients and colleagues who work alongside a Cancer CNS team. See what they all had to day on our dedicated CNS webpage.