Cancer Care on the Move: mobile cancer care unit 'Helen' gets a brand-new look

The unit, provided by the cancer care charity Hope for Tomorrow in partnership with Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, offers patients a more convenient, accessible and comfortable way to receive vital treatment in their local community.

Originally launched in 2007 as the world’s first mobile cancer care unit, ‘Helen’ has played a crucial role in supporting NHS oncology services in Gloucestershire for over 17 years. Now, thanks to significant fundraising efforts by Hope for Tomorrow, the previous vehicle has been replaced with a newly upgraded unit, ensuring it remains in the best possible condition to continue serving patients for years to come.

When starting systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) treatment (also known as chemotherapy/immunotherapy), patients will begin their treatment at Cheltenham General Hospital. They are then informed if they are eligible to receive subsequent treatments closer to where they need it on the mobile unit.

Based at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, ‘Helen’ also visits Cinderford, Stroud and Cirencester, providing cancer services to up to four patients at a time and supporting an average of 20 patients per day. Over the past year alone, more than 1,820 patient visits have taken place on board, reducing pressure on hospital oncology departments and helping patients avoid unnecessary travel and the associated time and costs at this time.

As well as transforming our own cancer facilities through the Big Space Cancer Appeal we work with partners in the community to deliver the best experience possible for our patients.

Making cancer care more accessible

Hope for Tomorrow is a national charity dedicated to providing mobile cancer care solutions, ensuring patients can access treatment where and when they need it.

Patients receiving treatment on board ‘Helen’ benefit from:

• More convenience – 86% of patients say the unit is easier to access than hospital treatment.
• Reduced travel costs – 66% of patients save over £6 per visit.
• Less time spent on treatment – almost a third of patients save over three hours in travel, waiting and treatment time per visit.
• Easier parking – 75% of patients report improved parking access.

Tina Seymour, Chief Executive of Hope for Tomorrow, said:

“We’re delighted to officially launch the newly upgraded mobile cancer care unit, ‘Helen’, here in Gloucestershire. With over 93% of patients telling us they find mobile units more convenient, the impact of providing treatment in local communities is clear. This service saves patients time and money as well as reducing stress at this difficult time, making cancer care a that little bit easier.

“It’s vital that we keep our mobile units in the best possible condition to support both patients and the incredible NHS teams who provide the best care on board. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported our fundraising efforts - it’s thanks to their generosity that we’ve been able to make this upgrade possible.”

A vital service for Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust continues to work closely with Hope for Tomorrow to expand access to community-based cancer care, ensuring patients receive high-quality treatment closer to home.

Professor Mark Pietroni, Medical Director at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“Mobile cancer care units like ‘Helen’ are a fantastic resource for our patients and the NHS. By providing treatment in a calm and comfortable environment outside of the hospital, we can reduce travel times, ease the burden on our wards and make care more accessible for people across the county.

“We are delighted to continue working with Hope for Tomorrow to ensure patients in Gloucestershire have the best possible experience of care.”