We want to reassure you that Cancer Support Scotland is taking all the correct precautions regarding the outbreak of Coronavirus. We continue to follow all guidance from Health Protection Scotland and the Scottish Government.
As a healthcare provider we already follow the same infection control guidelines as any NHS hospital with the Calman Centre and we are doing everything we can to ensure our services continue to be delivered safely and responsibly.
We also want to ensure that anyone affected by cancer using our services, including our outreach services in Libraries, are kept well-informed and updated regularly.
What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Coronavirus is the name given to a large group of different types of viruses that cause respiratory symptoms, ranging from mild to severe symptoms.
This new virus was first discovered last year and was named 2019 Novel Coronavirus or COVID-19 for short.
What are the symptoms of Coronavirus?
The signs and symptoms of Coronavirus are a temperature above 38.5ºC or below 36ºC, sore throat, cough and shortness of breath. Should you have any symptoms or be feeling unwell we would ask that you contact us before your appointment.
How are we minimising the risk of spreading the virus?
As a Cancer Charity, we take great care throughout the year with the health of those using our services. We are constantly taking steps to ensure our staff and volunteers are fit for work and are committed to trying to reduce any risk of spreading the cold, flu, sickness or in this case COVID-19.
In addition we have put in place the following measures:
- Increased information and instruction for all staff, volunteers and visitors on NHS hand hygiene guidance from the point of arrival in the Calman Centre
- Clear instruction of how and when to carry out hand hygiene
- Clear guidance to staff and volunteers about self-isolation guidance after travel or contact. Staff or volunteers who have travelled to Category 1 risk areas are not allowed to work until they have completed 14 days self-isolation
Is there specific advice for those with cancer?
An English based coalition of cancer charities have produced guidance for those affected by cancer. These will be steps you are already taking however you can view the guidance by clicking here.
I have a visit coming up at the Calman Centre or a visit to one of our outreach centres due – will this still go ahead?
At the moment we are remaining highly alert but we are continuing to run the service as normal. We are planning for the worst and working for the best.
What if I or a member of my family have symptoms and we are due to visit Cancer Support Scotland?
We would ask that you contact us before any planned visits where you or your family have any flu-like symptoms or where there is a suspected case of Coronavirus so we can look at alternative ways of delivering your wellbeing support services
What can I do on a daily basis to reduce the chances of catching this?
Advice from the World Health Organization (WHO) is focusing on the following:
- Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and warm water
- WHO recommends people wash their hands for the full duration of the song “Happy Birthday”, sung twice (20 seconds)
- Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately
- Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention by calling NHS 24111
What if the pandemic gets worse? Will Cancer Support Scotland be able to run?
At the moment we are remaining vigilant and will continue to run the service as normal. As the situation remains unpredictable and should the virus continue to spread and become a significant outbreak, we are focusing on contingency plans for responding to a range of potential scenarios and will update you regularly.
Who can I contact if I am worried about this?
We want to support you through this and if you have any questions about your support from us, please contact us on 0141 337 8199. For any questions about symptoms please contact NHS24 on 111.