Nearly 1,000 Dutch care workers trained to support mental health after cancer

Almost 1,000 Dutch GP practice assistants and other care workers have received training to recognise and support mental health problems among people with cancer or who have had cancer, according to cancer charity KWF Kankerbestrijding.

Over the past two years, 948 practice assistants and 49 other healthcare workers took part in the training, the charity said. KWF says a third of people who have or have had cancer need care and support beyond their medical treatment.

The training is intended to help people with relatively straightforward problems get support directly through their GP, rather than being referred to mental health services. KWF says this can help people receive support sooner and ease pressure on mental health waiting lists.