Accommodation: Initially the charity rented a 2 bedroom apartment just 5 minutes from the hospital, for patients, their relatives and loved ones to use. Such was the demand, the charity decided to rent a second apartment. By the end of July, the charity has organised 134 nightâs accommodation, with a combined occupancy rate of approaching 90%. Christine Scriven, patientâs wife said, âI arrived here exhausted and distraught â this flat has become my cocoon and safe haven ⦠my world has become more manageable â Thank you.

Transport: Patients often have to travel significant distances to the RD&E Hospital for clinic appointments, day case treatments and for admissions. By offering a FREE door to door service the charity is reducing the stress and cost of these journeys along with removing the anxiety of finding a car parking space at the hospital. Employing 2 dedicated patient drivers, backed up by Capital Taxis, the service has proved in a very short time to be exceptionally popular and needed. In July alone the charity organised 325 journeys and is expected that annually this will be in the region of 4500 journeys. Patient, Alan Sampson commented, This week, the only day when I could have a transfusion was a day when I had no transport of my own. I didn't know about ELF's service but was recommended by one of the nurses. I contacted ELF and my problem was solved â just like that! Itâs marvellous

Advice: In May the charity formed a partnership with Exeter Citizens Advice Bureau, which enables patients to access benefits and welfare advice in a timely manner with a dedicated ELF advisor. Guaranteeing at least 32 one hour appointments per month. The feedback received to date for users of the service has been heartening. The cost of cancer can be very expensive and stressful to the patient and with the advisorâs help the individual can access the financial support they are entitled to.

Dale Edwards, CEO of ELF's The Community Support Programme is a massive operational and financial undertaking for the charity to deliver much needed services. All connected with the charity have been delighted and amazed at how quickly all services have been taken up. The feedback and testimonials received from the beneficiaries and hospital staff is wonderful. We are investigating other ways we can help patients and are in the process of recruiting a new driver to cope with demand's Exeter Leukaemia Fund supports patients with leukaemia, lymphoma and other blood conditions and their loved ones in Exeter and across Devon and the South West. We provide support in a variety of ways including: Direct patient support, an ELF physical well-being programme, provision of specialist equipment and environment and funding specialist research. The charity has also recent launched a brand new Community Support Programme which includes assistance with travel, accommodation and advice. For more information about ELF please visit www.elfcharity.org.uk or contact Tracy Milton on 01392 247725, enquire@elfcharity.org.uk