Marie Curie services
Northumberland Care Trust currently has three Marie Curie Nurses who work alongside district nurses and other health professionals, such as Macmillan nurses and social care workers in North Northumberland and Central/ Blyth locations. Marie Curie nurses are part funded and supported by Marie Curie Cancer Care and work within Northumberland Care Trust.
Many people who are seriously ill with cancer or other illnesses and for who active treatment is no longer an option wish to remain at home for as long as possible in comfortable and familiar surroundings.
The aim of the service is to provide nursing and psychological care to individuals and their families living with a life limiting illness and who wish to remain and be cared for at home.
The Marie Curie nurses usually work Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. However, other times may be offered if required.
Where is the service provided?
Marie Curie nurses work predominantly in patients homes but they can also work in community hospitals and residential and nursing homes.
Who is eligible for the service?
Usually your district nurse or a member of the palliative care team will be in regular contact with you and it will be one of these health care professionals who will determine whether you could benefit from the service. With your consent a referral would be made directly to the Marie Curie nurse.
What will happen if I’m referred?
The Marie Curie nurses are used to working in peoples homes during difficult times. They will always work with families to make sure that this arrangement is as comfortable as possible.
Marie Curie nurses are asked to visit patients for a particular reason, for example to monitor the effects of a change in a patients medication or to provide a period of nursing care, which allows carers to get some rest.
The Marie Curie nurse provides nursing care for the patient as well as practical and emotional advice and support for the patient and their family. They have time to listen to any concerns about the patient’s illness or treatment.
The Marie Curie nurses can give any medication prescribed and perform technical nursing procedures including the management of syringe drivers.
To help with planning future care the Marie Curie nurse will let the District Nurse know about changes in the patient condition.
Contact details
If you would like to find out more about the Marie Curie nursing service please ask your district nurse or Macmillan nurse. Alternatively you can contact the Marie Curie team directly using the following details. (Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm)
Marie Curie service coordinator
Community Support Office
Nursery Park Health Centre
Ashington
NE63 0HP
Tel: 01670 394712
Mobile: 07765231202 or 07920576691
Website: www.mariecurie.orguk
Useful leaflets
If you need to request a copy in large print, or in another format or language please call 01670 394522.
Marie Curie nurses-patient information leaflet
