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Excellence award for manager at Tameside Macmillan Unit

Image: David humbled to receive the award, presented by Hollyoaks star Richard Blackwood

David Banks, manager of the Tameside Macmillan Unit, has been honoured with a Macmillan Professional award at a gala event in Manchester, hosted by actor and Hollyoaks star, Richard Blackwood.

David received the Innovation Excellence Award for his work in helping cancer patients from deprived backgrounds to access mental health services.

David said: “This award means a lot to me and my team. It’s great to see the work we have been involved with in Tameside and Glossop recognised in this way. I’m amazed, proud and humbled at the same time.”

David worked in partnership with Healthy Minds, a local IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Support) organisation, to develop a psychological support and talking therapy service.

He said: “Supporting every aspect of a patient’s life is really important. There’s no point in simply focussing on mental health if that person is in financial distress, unable to afford food or heating, or fearing the post or a knock at the door.

“From the first appointment, we offer support with benefits, debts, housing and employment. Then patients go on to see Healthy Minds for a mental health assessment or treatment, followed by complementary therapy. 

“Finally, we offer a session with a member of the Macmillan Information and Support team.

“It’s really rewarding to see the difference these interventions make. 

“When first arriving, people are often very anxious, and feelings of hopelessness and desperation are common.  

“Once they’ve received the help they need, people leave feeling more positive and more in control of their lives, knowing where to come if they need help in the future.

“What we’ve achieved so far is great, but we’re always looking at improving and expanding. This is especially important now, because we’re going to be seeing the impact of the pandemic on mental health for many years to come.”

Heather McLean, Macmillan Cancer Support Head of Partnerships North, said: “David exemplifies the spirit and dedication of our Macmillan Professionals. 

“His devotion to making life better for all the patients, relatives and carers who use the unit makes a huge difference. We are so very grateful to him and his team and he is thoroughly deserving of this award.

“This year the work of Macmillan Professionals like David has been more vital than ever, due to the challenges that the coronavirus pandemic has brought.”

For support, information or a chat, call Macmillan Cancer Support free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9am–8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk.

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