Teresa Lynch

Picture shows two women wearing headsets, and one of them is speaking to a caller. Nurse specialists at Prostate Cancer UK receive detailed training including mentors and a learning contract to equip them to deal with requests for help and advice.

How a cancer charity trains nurses to respond to calls for support

Training for nurse specialists at Prostate Cancer UK includes mentors and a learning contract

Telephone helpline supports patients with prostate cancer

Nurses considering working for charities may not be aware of how they can use skills they have gained in the clinical area. This article aims to explain how those who are at an advanced stage in their careers can further develop their skills in the voluntary sector as specialist nurses. They can also maintain effective partnership between the NHS and the voluntary sector. The ongoing challenge of this role is assisted by continuing professional development and regular clinical supervision. In this way, nurses can maintain their competence and reflection in practice, helping patients and their families come to terms with a diagnosis of prostate cancer and the required management of the disease.