We know being told you have cancer can be a scary and upsetting time. We’re here to help you every step of the way. On this page we’ll explain what radiotherapy is, what to expect during your visits, and how our team will look after you.
What is Radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy is a treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. The rays come from a special machine called a linear accelerator. We have six of these machines in our department.
Radiotherapy can be used on its own, or with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy. The goal is to treat the cancer while protecting the healthy parts of your body as much as possible.
Our Service
The radiotherapy department opened in the Queen’s Centre in 2008 and serves a catchment area that includes the whole of East Yorkshire and parts of North Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. The department receives around 2800 patient referrals and delivers 36400 radiotherapy treatments every year.
We are a leading department in the UK, delivering world class radiotherapy cancer treatment on six modern state of the art treatment machines called “linear accelerators”. Our machines have advanced x-ray imaging capabilities that enable very accurate treatment delivery through precise targeting and verification of tumour position.
Did you know?
In 2019 we became the first centre in the North of England and only the second nationally to commission the use of a Halcyon linear Accelerator. This type of machine is designed to provide a better patient experience, including quicker treatment times, quieter running and easier access for patients.
In 2013 the government set a monthly target of 24% for increasing the utilisation of IMRT for radically planned radiotherapy across all radiotherapy centres in England and Wales. Here in Hull we have consistently achieved and exceeded this target.
We are committed to the highest standards of radiotherapy quality and care, delivering safe accurate treatment in a timely manner. The whole radiotherapy service is BS EN 9001:2015 certified and the localisation service is BS70000:2017 accredited. Further details can be found here:
CertCheck UKAS
Schedule of Accreditation from UKAS
As a teaching centre the radiotherapy and radiation physics departments have close affiliations with Sheffield Hallam University.
Meet the Team
Clinical Oncologists and Consultant Radiographers
These are cancer doctors and specialist radiographers. They decide what treatment is best for you and will explain your options. If radiotherapy is the right choice, they’ll plan your treatment and arrange a special CT scan to help target the cancer.
Therapeutic Radiographers
These are trained professionals who give you your radiotherapy. They’ll explain everything clearly, answer your questions, and make sure you’re safe and comfortable during treatment.
Clinical Scientists (Medical Physicists)
These experts check the machines and make sure your treatment is given safely and correctly. They help create your treatment plan and check for any changes to your body during treatment (like weight loss).
Radiotherapy Equipment Technicians
These staff fix and check the radiotherapy machines. They work closely with the physics team to make sure everything is working properly before treatment starts.
Dosimetrists
These staff use special computer software to plan your treatment. They work with your doctor to make sure the radiation goes to the right place and avoids healthy areas as much as possible.
Radiotherapy Clinical Nurse Specialists (RT CNS)
These nurses give support during your treatment. They help with any side effects and may do checks like taking blood samples or giving medicines.
Dietitians
Radiotherapy can make eating harder, especially if the treatment area is near your mouth, throat, or stomach. Dietitians will help you keep eating well. They may suggest special drinks or foods if needed.
Patient Information Team / Clinical Support Workers
This team helps you understand what to expect. They’ll call you before your first appointment, answer questions, and check how you’re doing after treatment.
Booking Coordinators
They arrange your appointments and let you know when and where to come. They’ll help make sure you have transport and understand what each visit is for.
Other Staff
You’ll also meet: receptionists, porters, volunteers, and psychological support staff. They all help to make your visit as smooth and supportive as possible.
Contact Us
Call us on 01482 461191
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
