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About our unit (TYA cancer care)

Our unit allows young people to be with other patients their own age, who are receiving treatment for all types of cancer, leukaemia and some non-cancer illnesses.

It is one of several Teenage Cancer Trust units across the UK which have been specially designed by young people who have completed their treatment.

The unit is made up of an inpatient ward, a day care ward and also a social space, although some treatment may take place in other parts of the hospital.

All of the nurses who work in our unit have chosen to work with young people with cancer, and have had extra training to do so.

Inpatient ward (C6 ward)

Our ward has six single bedrooms designed for young people who are having treatment that requires them to stay in hospital. Each room has:

  • an en-suite bathroom
  • a fridge and storage for drinks and snacks
  • a TV, DVD player and MP3 speakers
  • a laptop with wireless internet access
  • a games console
  • a sofa bed for a parent, friend or partner to stay overnight. People staying overnight must be aged 18 or over, or over 16 with their parent or guardian’s permission.

As well as clothes and personal items, patients can bring their own bedding, mobile phone and laptop. There is free WiFi throughout the unit.

Day care ward

This is where young people can have chemotherapy, other similar treatments or medical procedures as an outpatient. The ward has four treatment spaces which have beds and chairs.

Patients in our day care ward have full access to all the facilities in our unit.

Social space

The social space allows patients to spend time with other young people, friends and family during their stay in hospital. It has:

  • sofas
  • TVs
  • a gaming area
  • a jukebox
  • a pool table
  • a kitchen and dining area.

There is also a family sitting room for parents or partners to take a bit of a break whenever they want, without leaving the unit.

Other treatment areas

Not all treatment or appointments take place in our unit.

  • Young people who need an operation will be looked after on the adult ward that specialises in the type of surgery they need.
  • The radiotherapy department is on the main hospital site, and is used to treat people of all ages.
  • Young people who have an outpatient appointment will usually attend their consultant’s adult clinics.

However, our support team will see patients no matter what part of the hospital they are in, to make sure that they are linked in with us throughout their treatment.