A multi-million-pound pilot project aims to help transform cancer care and aftercare across Tayside.
Cancer charities fear many people do not get the support they need to deal with the “emotional, practical and financial” problems the disease leaves behind.
Now, Macmillan is spending £5 million to fund a programme that aims to change that by asking those who need assistance to help shape the services they receive.
The Transforming Care After Treatment (TCAT) programme will see the charity working with NHS Tayside, the Scottish Government, local authorities and patients.
An online survey is the first step, with the feedback gathered from cancer patients, carers and the general public used to develop and enhance support services available.
Macmillan’s general manager in Scotland, Janice Preston, said the research is important, as many people living with cancer often do not seek help between hospital appointments.
“The number of people surviving cancer is increasing and that’s good news but too many patients tell us they feel they’re left to cope alone after treatment ends,” she said.
“The current system wasn’t set up to support the huge numbers of people living with cancer and too often this means people don’t get the support they need, particularly when it comes to dealing with the emotional, practical and financial problems cancer can often leave behind.”
NHS Tayside said it hopes to create services that help people feel “in control and supported”.
Visit yournhstayside websiteto take part in the survey.