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The Rose Thompson Foundation - Case Study

Meeting the Digital Literacy Needs of Cancer Patients and Carers in Nottingham

The Rose Thompson Foundation is dedicated to preserving and protecting the health of individuals affected by cancer. Our mission is to provide culturally appropriate and adequate support through:


  • Tailored holistic cancer care to enhance survival, remission, or recovery.
  • Support for carers of those affected by cancer.
  • Community engagement and involvement services aimed at improving participation in cancer research and detection initiatives

The Focus on Cancer Care

We aim to address the holistic needs of patients and carers by providing a Support Group Network (SGN), access to information specialists and advocates, and wellness action planning. Additionally, we offer subsidised access to complementary therapies and digital services to further support their wellbeing.

The Need for Digital Literacy

One key need identified among our service users is digital literacy. Considering that cancer is an age-related condition, it is crucial to provide this kind of support to many of our service users who are not familiar with IT and are not usually digitally confident. Many patients and carers find it challenging to navigate digital platforms, which can restrict access to vital information and resources

Digital Literacy Sessions

One of the key elements we plan to deliver within the SGN is Digital Literacy sessions, is to support both patients and carers. This includes training sessions, personalised assistance, and easy-to-follow guides to help service users become more comfortable and proficient with digital tools.

Digital competency is also a necessary component of the SGN provision. This was identified and requested by a candidate for the SGN Support Worker role. The candidate emphasised the importance of being digitally literate to provide effective support and advocacy for patients.


The feedback underscores the growing use of digital skills in the healthcare sector, especially in roles that involve direct patient interaction and support. By working together, we can create a supportive network that ensures no one is left behind in the digital age

“WW” was employed for several years in a registry office before moving into a counselling role. They were an experienced counsellor, and their previous role was that of a cancer support advocate. Their professional skills and abilities made them an ideal candidate for the SGN Support Worker role. Therefore, the opportunity to enhance and update their digital skills was timely.


Following an informal assessment of their IT literacy, we identified three primary areas for sessional training:

  • Setting up internet access via Wi-Fi.
  • Setting up and hosting Zoom meetings.
  • Navigating bespoke online information and support resources.


Phase Two Training to Access NHS Applications

By updating their digital skills, WW will become a Digital Champion, supporting and encouraging SGN members to use the NHS App and other similar digital services.
Digital literacy will be included in SGN participants’ personal care and recovery action plans. WW will be encouraged to attend the training session delivered by Digital Notts for Phase 2 of the CVS collaboration scheme.

The Infopool Resource

In particular, the Infopool Prostate Cancer Resource (www.theinfopool.co.uk) is a one-stop shop for men with Prostate Cancer. It provides valuable information on testing and diagnosis, treatment options, how to deal with side effects, and information for partners and carers .


Being digitally competent has improved WW’s capacity in their advocacy and support role and prepared them to be a digital champion in their work. Notably, prostate cancer in Black African – Caribbean men is twice as high as that of the white British population, with cases occurring at a younger age and being more aggressive. As a key worker in the SGN, competence with this information tool will equip WW in this key role.