Men across Scotland undergoing treatment for prostate cancer can benefit from new care and support packs thanks to a project by charity Prostate Scotland and long-term funder, the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
PROSPACKS – tailored packs for men beginning radiotherapy, brachytherapy, surgery or chemotherapy – are available for urology departments in Scottish hospitals to use as an extra resource to support their patients.
New Victoria Hospital in Glasgow and Monklands Hospital in Airdrie are the latest urology departments to take on PROSPACKS, joining Raigmore Hospital in Inverness, Western General Hospital in Edinburgh and St John’s Hospital in Livingston.
The initiative was developed by Prostate Scotland in consultation with both patients and clinicians, aiming to address common physical and emotional challenges men face at the outset of treatment.
Each pack contains practical and comfort-based items chosen based on patient insight, including moisturising lotion, sensitive soap, continence pads, mouthwash, antibacterial gel, thermal socks, ginger tea and eye masks – small items that can make a meaningful difference.
Jaimin Bhatt, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, commented: “We’re happy to work with Prostate Scotland and offer PROSPACKS to our patients. The packs have been thoughtfully designed with practical items and include information resources which will work alongside the clinical care we provide – our team is confident that they’ll make a positive impact.”
Prostate Scotland’s CEO, Alison Wright, meeting with Jaimin Bhatt, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
The project is made possible through a funding commitment from the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Its members across the country raised funds through a range of initiatives, including the Masons 4 Munros challenge, which saw participants climb 16 Munros in support of the cause.
Ramsay McGhee, Grand Master Mason, Grand Lodge of Scotland, said: “We’re very proud to fund such an innovative and meaningful project. Feedback from our members who’ve undergone treatment shows just how valuable this kind of support can be. This project is testament to what can be achieved through partnership and understanding the needs of men going through prostate cancer treatment.”
For urology and oncology units across Scotland interested in offering PROSPACKS to their patients, please contact Prostate Scotland on info@prostatescotland.org.uk
The PROSPACKS initiative complements the charity’s growing portfolio of support services, including its 6-week Living Well with Prostate Cancer course, delivered in partnership with Maggie’s and Cancer Support Scotland, and its Prostate Football Fan in Training, a 12-week health and nutrition programme run in partnership with the SPFL Trust.
