Cancer Support Workers
Training and Development
Guidance for Cancer Support Worker/Navigator induction programmes
From our experience with Cancer Support Workers and Navigators, those who are given a clear job plan and offered a comprehensive induction programme are more likely to integrate quickly with their Cancer teams in a positive and cohesive manner. A good induction programme enhances face-to-face contact with other individuals (both within the trust and primary care) and facilitates embedding this new role within the workforce giving the opportunity for discussion of working relationships, roles and responsibilities.
As well as attending the Cancer Alliance’s Support Workers Development Programme and completing the Portfolio (which is aligned to national recommendations for KPI’s), these are some further suggestions that could be included in a local induction plan:
Introduction to named ‘Mentor’ – review roles and responsibilities Orientation to Department/workstation/facilities |
ED/LWBC |
Meeting with MDT Coordinator/ Cancer Tracker/Booking Clerks to understand pathways and process |
ED |
Attending an MDT (with CNS/Mentor) |
ED/LWBC |
Several days shadowing CSW/Navigator in similar role (in house or regionally) |
ED/LWBC |
Shadowing CNS (observing HNA) |
LWBC |
Introducing/meeting local GPs/staff practices (face to face or telephone) |
ED |
Visiting local cancer community support centres (i.e. Brio) |
LWBC |
Observing relevant clinics (i.e. endoscopy/lung) |
ED/LWBC |
Observing process and treatment(s) in radiotherapy/chemotherapy |
LWBC |
Session/Visit with Macmillan Information Centre/Maggie’s |
LWBC |
Below is our 2019 training prosectus along with our Cancer Support Worker Portfolio.
Cancer Support Worker Portfolio
Early Diagnosis Cancer Support Workers 
Example Job Description and Person Specification
Living with and Be
yond Cancer Support Workers
Example Job Description and Person Specification
Peer Support
We organise a regular 'Tea-Brief' and invite all CSW's accross Cheshire and Merseyside to attend. This is an opportunity for individuals to catch-up with colleagues, to share good practice and develop your support network. We focus on any areas that have been challenging for our CSW's including a session on resilience.
If you are interested in attending future 'tea-brief' workshops please contact the team by email on
ccf-tr.admin.cmca@nhs.net