Staff and patients at the Oncology Department in Forth Valley Royal Hospital celebrated today after receiving a prestigious national award.

The team at the Oncology Unit provide a wide range of treatments and support to patients with cancer from across Forth Valley and also host a range of outpatient clinics run by cancer specialists from the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre in Glasgow.

The award is the first of its kind in the UK. It recognises and rewards good practice and high standards within the physical environment of a cancer care building. NHS Forth Valley’s Oncology Unit is among only 20 sites in Scotland to be given the award, which has been developed in collaboration with people living with cancer and organisations including the NHS.

Liz MacMillan, NHS Forth Valley’s Oncology Unit Manager, who is currently working with Macmillan to develop national standards for cancer care in Scotland, said: “Attending a hospital for cancer treatment or check-ups can be a very stressful experience so its important to provide a friendly and relaxing environment to help patients and families feel more at ease.”

“We’re also very fortunate to have modern, purpose-built Oncology facilities at Forth Valley Royal Hospital which were designed with input from local staff and patients.”

Joyce Dunlop, Associate Macmillan Development Manager said: “This award reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in making the Oncology Unit at Forth Valley Hospital such a special place. Assessors found that staff worked extremely hard to create a welcoming atmosphere and that the staff and volunteers are committed to providing high quality care in a comfortable environment. We are delighted and they should be congratulated for all their hard work.”

The Macmillan Quality Environment Mark will help to ensure that people affected by cancer are treated and supported in physical environments of uniformly high quality. The scheme is open to any healthcare providers from the public, voluntary or private sectors that operate cancer care buildings.

Organisations can apply to be assessed for the Macmillan Quality Environment Mark here.