Your doctor will advise you on the choice of specialist units available.

For more specialist investigation and treatment and for care of less common cancers, you may be referred to one of the Newcastle Hospitals:

BACUP Freephone Helpline (Tel: 0800 181199) Provides support and practical advice in writing or by telephone; ranges of free publications and a newspaper.

Getting To and From Hospital

If you have difficulty getting to and turn hospital to leep your appointments, you may be eligible for some help. For instance, an ambulance or ambulance car may be sent to collect you and take you to and from the hospital, or travel costs may be refunded to you.

Before you go for your first appointment you should contact your own GP who will make the appropriate arrangements for you. Then, if you require regular transport, speak to the Hospital Clinic and they will organise transport if appropriate. Please note that you cannot directly book the transport yourself.

Some local organisations provide asslstance for patients wishing to travel to hospital. Contact details for these organisations can be found in the "Help may be close at hand" leaflet.

Other Benefits You May Be Entitled to Claim

There is a wide range of benefits which may help you cope with any financial burdens you may be facing as a result of illness.

These may include Statutory Sick Pay if you were employed and paying National Insurance when you became ill Incapacity Benefit if you are unemployed, self-employed or have been off work for more than 28 weeks Severe Disablement Allowance Disability Living Allowance if you are under 65 years old and need help looking after yourself Attendance Allowance if you are over 65 InvalId Care Allowance if you are caring for someone who is sick or disabled.

There may be other benefits which can assist you such as The Social Fund; Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit; or help with health costs. There is a confidential telephone service available which you can contact for help and advice, by calling the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 882200. The website address is http://www.dss.gov.uk/ba

It may also be possible to discuss your needs with a social worker who could help you apply for the appropriate help.