Clatterbridge Cancer Centre Liverpool Sites Spring 2018 Listening Event

Healthwatch Liverpool held listening events at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre clinics based at the Royal Liverpool Hospital and Aintree Hospital during March and April 2018. Feedback was gathered from 42 patients receiving chemotherapy, radiotherapy and outpatient care. Overall, experiences were highly positive, with patients consistently praising the quality of care, professionalism of staff and the support they received throughout treatment. Both sites received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. 

The strongest positive theme was staff attitude. Patients described staff as caring, knowledgeable, reassuring and approachable, often commenting on the emotional support they received during treatment. Patients also appreciated being able to access cancer services locally in Liverpool rather than travelling to the Wirral, and many praised the overall organisation of care and treatment. 

The main concerns related to waiting times, parking and the physical environment. Some patients reported delays at appointments and felt communication about waiting times could be improved. Others highlighted parking difficulties, particularly at the Royal Liverpool site, and some felt facilities such as waiting areas and treatment rooms looked dated or lacked sufficient seating. Patients at the Aintree site also suggested establishing local support groups similar to those available elsewhere. 

Healthwatch concluded that the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre was delivering highly regarded care, with staff and treatment quality being the service’s greatest strengths. Recommendations focused on improving parking, communication about waiting times, comfort within waiting areas and treatment spaces, and enhancing support facilities for patients and families.