[15th May 2025]
We are deeply concerned about the impact the closure of the Pelvic Radiation Late Effects Service at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre in Glasgow, will have on people living with PRD. The centre has for 7 years provided vital care and support for people living with the long-term effects of cancer treatment.
The ground-breaking service has been highly regarded and effective in helping patients manage complex symptoms caused by pelvic radiotherapy. Its closure is likely to leave many without specialist support for bowel, bladder, menopause, and sexual difficulties, impacting their quality of life.
The decision to close the service was made as charitable funding has now come to an end and no alternative funding has been secured. We are actively seeking further details about this decision and what provisions will be in place for affected patients. We will share any updates as soon as they become available.
We understand this news may be upsetting for those who currently use the service or were on the waiting list to access it.
If you’ve been affected, we encourage you to follow any guidance shared by your clinical team. We understand that information and support should have been provided to both current service users and those on the waiting list. This may include speaking with your GP or seeking sources of patient support such PRDA, Macmillan or Maggie’s.
- PRDA Support We have a number of support services available that are free to access for people living with symptoms of PRD.
- Maggie’s are able to offer support to help manage worries, anxiety, and distress that you may experience following a cancer diagnosis and treatment. You can contact Maggie’s on 0300 123 1801 or via their email: enquires@maggies.org. There are also Maggie’s centres throughout the UK- no appointment is needed. You can simply pop in and meet with one of the team.
- Macmillan provide physical, emotional and financial support to help you live life as fully as you can.
Have you received support from this Pelvic Radiation Late Effects Service?
We understand how personal and challenging this experience can be, particularly as the Glasgow service closes. We’d like to hear from those who’ve used it—or any other late effects service—about how it helped, what it meant to you, and any thoughts you’d like to share.
Your insights can help raise awareness of PRD and highlight the value of specialist support. We welcome honest, constructive reflections, shared with respect for everyone involved. Our aim is to share stories that inform, support, and inspire.