Guidance published on the skills required to provide psychological care for adults with cancer

The new guidance titled, 'Competency framework for practitioner psychologists working in adult cancer care' splits out the competencies into 'skills' and 'knowledge' and is a revised version of guidance published in 2011. 

Just under half of people being treated for cancer experience significant psychological distress during their treatment. A survey from Macmillan found that even 10 years after treatment, 54 per cent of cancer survivors were living with a psychological issue. Offering high-quality psychological care is a vital component of modern cancer care. 

Dr Mike Rennoldson, consultant clinical psychologist and one of the lead authors on the guidelines, said:

"We want this framework to improve care for people with cancer in two ways. Firstly, supporting the professional development of psychologists working in cancer settings and secondly, by informing health policy-makers about the specialist skills and knowledge required to provide safe and effective psychological care at this level. 

"I would like to thank past members of the faculty of oncology and palliative care committee, and Alex King in particular, for their help putting the framework together."

The competency framework can be downloaded via BPS Explore.