We’re excited to announce a new community-based service designed to provide greater support for people of all ages with sickle cell disorder in south east London. This service is currently being rolled out across all six boroughs (Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark), with each area gradually introducing this enhanced service.
What’s included in the new community service?
- More nurses: There will be more specialist nurses available for both children and adults with sickle cell. These nurses will work with local NHS Trusts.
- Wider support team: People living with sickle cell will have access to community-based specialists, including dietitians, physiotherapists, psychologists, and pharmacists, to help manage your condition.
- Help with everyday life: The service can offer welfare advice and support on benefits and legal matters.
- Peer support: Young people with sickle cell can connect with others who understand what they’re going through, through the Sickle Cell Society.
- Education and information: We’re developing new resources to help patients, schools, workplaces, and healthcare professionals learn more about sickle cell disorder.
How is the service being rolled out across South East London?
We are working hard to roll out the enhanced community service for all south east London residents living with sickle cell disorder. While some areas may already have access to a range of specialised support, others are still in the process of recruiting healthcare professionals. We’re working to ensure that everyone living with sickle cell in south east London can benefit from this improved service as soon as possible.
Stay updated:
To stay informed about the latest updates on the service rollout in your area, please speak to your haematology hospital team or sickle cell community nurse.
For any general enquiries, you can also email gst-tr.selsicklecommunity@nhs.net.