A hospital in Blackburn has been praised for its outstanding cancer services by accessors.

The Beardwood Hospital, part of Circle Health Group, in Blackburn has been recognised for the cancer services available at it’s Beardwood Centre.

Assessors who visited the hospital in June, took particular notice of the privacy and dignity afforded to patients using the centre, as well as the accessibility and welcoming atmosphere.  

The Macmillan Quality Environment Mark was set up in 2010, in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support and the Department of Health to better meet the needs of patients living with cancer.

The award recognises hospitals, hospices and support centres that go above and beyond in the way they design a cancer service that provides a welcoming and supportive environment.  

The Beardwood Cancer Centre, was first opened in 2008 and was one of the first dedicated cancer centres in the North-West.

From the outset, the centre was designed to provide patients with an intimate and welcoming environment, away from the main hospital building to receive treatment. 

Four categories are evaluated before the award can be given. They range from how the clinical environment is designed to avoid patients feeling intimidated or welcome, through to service experience and patient voice.

To meet the standards required, organisations being assessed must meet an 80% overall average in each of the four categories.  

The Beardwood Cancer Centre achieved the highest score and was recognised as offering an excellent service to patients suffering with cancer from across Lancashire.  

Assessors also noted that staff at the Beardwood continually engaged with patients and their families and as a result directly altered services and practices to meet the needs of the patients they were treating effectively.

The Beardwood Hospital is now considered to be an exceptional example of best practice for cancer services.  

Angela Thompson, Clinical Services Manager, said: “It is wonderful to be award the MQEM award and recognised by Macmillan.

"Our team work tirelessly to create a friendly, quiet place for our patients where their privacy and dignity is maintained and feel supported at what for many, is the most challenging time of their lives."