A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the Department of Health and Social Care and the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group (MBCSG). The document forms the basis of a partnership for future collaboration on the delivery of services at the Manx Breast Unit.
The £1.5 million state of the art facility at Noble’s Hospital, which opened in February, was only possible thanks to the generous donations and bequests from individuals, businesses, groups and trusts. The agreement recognises the role the MBCSG has played in raising funds to build and equip the Unit, as well as in contributing its views on the design: from layout and décor, to furniture and fittings.
Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle MHK, said: ‘The Manx Breast Cancer Support Group has achieved something quite remarkable in raising the funds for this new Unit. The Committee and the whole community can be rightly proud.’
‘The charity has played an integral role in the project – not just through their fundraising efforts – but also through to design and delivery. They’ve been there every step of the way and are committed for the long term. The memorandum recognises this and ensures that we can work together on future service developments and any changes to the Unit.’
‘It’s a relatively new way of working, but one that will likely become more common in line with Department’s five year strategy which seeks to develop partnerships with the third sector and faith communities.’
The memorandum sets out the roles and responsibilities of the charity and the Department, the values the relationship is based upon, and the objectives of the working relationship, which include to:
- maintain a dedicated breast care unit on one site which concentrates on providing the best possible care for all;
- facilitate the aim of the MBCSG to have an environment and ambience in the Manx Breast Unit which focuses on the emotional needs of the patient; and
- continue the good working relationship between the MBCSG and the Department formed during the design and construction phases of the Manx Breast Unit.
President of the MBCSG, David Gawne MBE, said: “For the charity the completion of the Unit isn’t the end, but simply the beginning of the next phase in our ongoing aspiration of ensuring the Isle of Man has the very best breast care possible. For example, we’ve recently raised enough funds to upgrade the mammography machine to take 3D scans, which can be more effective at detecting abnormalities. We’re now raising funds for a new intraoperative radiation therapy system which can precisely target a tumour with radiation to avoid damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
‘We of course recognise that the Department must be left to run the day to day operations of the Unit, but both parties are committed to a long term partnership. We can offer feedback on the patient experience and give advice and recommendations for consideration.’
