The role of a cancer support worker (CSW) is to work alongside a team of CNSs to support people affected by cancer, enabling effective and efficient working.
Nationally there are some differences in the role, depending on a nursing team’s needs. Sometimes they are called a cancer navigator, assistant practitioner or coordinator, depending on the specific focus of the role.
All CSWs work with CNSs to support patients who have non-complex needs, allowing the CNS to focus on patients with complex care needs. This may include:
- providing a single point of access
- providing advice and guidance
- escalating concerns where necessary
- holistic needs assessment and care planning
- supporting patients to self-manage through referrals or signposting to other services
- providing emotional support
- administrative support for the nursing team
- guiding patients with suspected cancer through the investigation and diagnostic part of the pathway
- auditing care and patient satisfaction.
