We are a team of Clinical Nurse Specialists and Macmillan Nurses, mainly funded by Fair Havens Hospice, Essex. We offer home assessments, support and an information advice service for people affected by life-limiting illnesses. We are qualified nurses who have specialised knowledge of cancer and palliative care.
Our main role is to provide advice, support and information rather than hands-on care. We work with other specialists including doctors, chaplaincy, social care and occupational therapists, who meet at least once a week. Patient’s cases are discussed at these meetings; this ensures you receive the best possible care. If you would like a written copy of any discussions held regarding your case, this can be arranged.
Who we can help
We are here to give advice to people with life-limiting illnesses and to those involved in their care. We offer physical, emotional, spiritual and psychological support to both patients and families. We also support other professionals who may be involved in your care through ongoing advice, training and development.
What we offer
We explain the most effective way to control pain and other symptoms. We give advice and guide you through the treatments available. We will spend time with you and your family to provide emotional support. Our service can be introduced at any stage of your illness. We accept referrals from patients, carers, GP’s, District Nurses, hospital staff and most other healthcare professionals.
However a patient must be made aware that a referral has been made. You will be contacted within two working days of the team receiving your referral. This will be via the telephone to assess the level of support you require.
It may be that initially you only require telephone contact and this will be covered by the Fair Havens Macmillan Nurse covering the Information Advice Service. If you require face-to-face support, the Fair Havens Macmillan Nurse covering your area will contact you to arrange a visit. The initial assessment will take approximately 60-90 minutes, when you and your carers will be able to discuss your concerns and ways in which we can help.
How to get in touch
Our working hours are Monday-Friday 8.30-17.00, excluding Bank Holidays. Outside these hours a message can be left on the answer phone and contact will be made the next working day.
Our office is based at:
Fair Havens Macmillan Team
45-47 Alexandra Street
Southend on Sea
Essex
SS1 1BW
Telephone – 01702 332487
The Fair Havens Macmillan Information Advice Service is open Monday-Friday 9.00-17.00 on 01702 220359.
For urgent advice contact your GP, District Nurse, or the Fair Havens Hospice at Home Information Advice Service on 07850 613445.
