As the Associate Director of Nursing for Cancer here at Stockport , I am absolutely passionate about cancer nursing and the crucial contribution cancer nurses have in supporting patients at one of the most difficult times in their life.  I am privileged to promote this importand role and the day dedicated to highlighting it’s importance.

Having worked in cancer care for more than 30 years , I have witnessed first hand the essential contribution that the Cancer clinical nurse specialist (CNS) workforce makes to patients and their families, day in and day out.

In my opinion, it is essential  that we recognise the complexity and skilled nature of the Cancer CNS role and also the difference they make to the lives of people affected by cancer.

Firstly, there is clear evidence of the benefits that CNS offer to people living with cancer in terms of improving their quality of life,  their experience of care and in many cases, their survival.

Furthermore, CNS help to:

• reduce the number of emergency admissions
• the length of hospital stays
• the number of follow-up appointments
• the number of medical consultations
• provide support to enable people to be cared for and to die in their place of choice.

CNS support can ensure people have continuity of care during their cancer journey as CNSs are usually the first point of contact when a patient  requires any support and they continue to be involved in their care for many years.

Years of evaluating the role has firmly established the CNS as an essential member of the multidisciplinary team in enhancing cancer care. CNSs use their expertise to assess, diagnose and treat people living with cancer and their role extends to other areas such as education and research.

For those of you reading this, who are already in a CNS role, then I’d like to say the biggest thank you for the incredible work you do, each and every day.

-Michelle Davies

Associate Director of Nursing for Cancer Services

Stockport NHS Foundation Trust