The lymphoedema service is based at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Wirral (CCC-Wirral) and consists of a team of specialist nurses experienced in the care of lymphoedema linked to cancer.

Lymphoedema develops when the lymphatic system does not work properly. The lymphatic system is a network of channels and nodes throughout the body that helps fight infection and remove excess fluid.

In someone with lymphoedema, lymph (a protein-rich fluid) does not drain away properly. It accumulates causing skin and tissue changes and making you more at risk of infections. 

The most common symptom is swelling. 

Lymphoedema most commonly affects the arms and legs, but can also affect other areas including the head and neck, abdomen, breasts or genitals.

We provide a 5-day service from 8:00am to 4:00pm (08:00-16:00), Monday to Friday. 

We deliver specialist education, support, information and treatment to patients who develop lymphoedema as a direct result of their cancer or treatments, using a holistic approach. 

Our purpose is to improve the overall quality of life for patients living with lymphoedema. We create individual holistic care plans and wherever possible promote self-management and wellbeing. We also offer information and support for carers and act as a resource for other health professionals.

  • Macmillan Lead Clinical Specialist in Lymphoedema – Jan Ireland
  • Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist Lymphoedema – Clare Booth
  • Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist Lymphoedema – Cathy Dowling
  • Macmillan Physiotherapist – Victoria Ford
  • Patient Services Officer for Lymphoedema – Ruth Smart

Contact the team

Useful links for information and support for lymphoedema include:

If you feel you have developed lymphoedema, you can ask a healthcare professional to refer you to a lymphoedema service. Referral guidance for healthcare professionals. 

Patients in Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, South Sefton and St Helens – MerseyCare provide the lymphoedema service for people in these areas.