Multilingual Services

With The Royal Marsden’s multilingual services, overseas patients receive all the cultural and clinical support they need

For international patients whose first language is not English, having medical treatment in the UK may feel daunting. Our team of specially trained, multilingual staff is on hand to offer support – from the first time patients contact us to the end of treatment.

Annie Allan, one of our International Patient Relations Officers, says: “We understand that some patients have made a lot of adjustments, especially those who have travelled to the UK specifically for treatment. I aim to offer practical assistance with our translation
and interpreting services, as well as a sense of comfort and reassurance.”

Annie supports Chinese-speaking patients and is a constant point of contact between them and clinical staff. She helps set up referral appointments, support visa application processes and guide patients when they first arrive at The Royal Marsden.

“We also help patients to understand what their clinical teams have advised, and importantly interpret the patients’ symptoms and feelings back to the consultants and nurses,” she adds. “Those who have little or no English have expressed sincere appreciation for having someone present who is able to speak their own language.”

Annie works closely with a team of multinational colleagues, which includes a dedicated Arabic Advocacy Service. They ensure the needs of international patients, whether cultural or medical, are met.

Nuolan, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer at The Royal Marsden after moving with her husband to the UK from Beijing in 2018, says: “Having someone there to translate into Chinese has been a really important part of my treatment and means that I feel fully informed. During such a difficult time, it has made it much easier for my family.”

During such a difficult time, it has made it much easier for my family

Nuolan, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer at The Royal Marsden

Going the extra mile

Our international team is available to assist patients through all aspects of their treatment – everything from support admission and consultations to advice on accommodation and payment enquiries. We offer translation services for most languages, including Arabic and Mandarin, free of charge.

We understand how important it is for patients to feel settled during their time at The Royal Marsden, so we provide them with a range of international newspapers, magazines and TV channels.

The team can also help to co-ordinate food for patients, ensuring any dietary requirements – such as halal and kosher meals – are catered to. Furthermore, all our patients are welcome to use our multi-faith prayer and worship room at any time.