27 April 2026

What began as an initiative to create a safe and supportive space for patients and carers has grown into a series of strong and valuable partnerships spanning south east London and beyond for KHP Haematology.

In 2023, clinical nurse specialists and consultants from King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (FT) sites at Denmark Hill and Princess Royal University Hospital sought support to re-establish quarterly patient and carer support group meetings for individuals affected by myeloma. 

These meetings were designed to provide a welcoming forum for shared experiences, advice, and mutual support. They were initially open to patients from King’s College Hospital NHS FT, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS FT, and other Trusts across southeast London.

Myeloma is a type of cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow. It occurs when abnormal plasma cells are produced within the bone marrow, impacting the body’s ability to fight infection and maintain healthy bones. While myeloma is currently incurable, it can be effectively managed with treatment, often requiring long-term clinical and emotional support.

As symptoms and disease progression can vary significantly between individuals, the clinical team at King’s College Hospital NHS FT recognised the importance of reinstating face-to-face support group meetings following their suspension during the pandemic. These meetings enable patients and carers to benefit from peer-to-peer support, shared understanding, and direct engagement with healthcare professionals in a supportive environment.

While KHP Haematology was able to coordinate and manage the logistical arrangements for these meetings, additional funding was required to provide basic refreshments, helping to create a welcoming and comfortable setting for attendees. The Chartwell Cancer Trust kindly stepped in to provide this support. The charity has a long-standing commitment to supporting oncology patients of all ages and works closely with a number of hospitals.

Since late 2024, The Chartwell Cancer Trust has funded the refreshments for the myeloma support group meetings, ensuring that patients and carers are welcomed with a hot drink on arrival, adding warmth and comfort to each session.

Michael Douglas, Trustee of The Chartwell Cancer Trust shared:

“We are proud to support the south east London Myeloma Support Group, which provides a vital space for patients to connect, share experiences, and access support. For the past two years, we have been pleased to fund this initiative, bringing together patients to help improve the experience and wellbeing of those living with cancer.” 

Alongside this collaboration, KHP Haematology has also developed a strong relationship with Myeloma UK following the launch of the support group meetings. Through an invitation to join the Myeloma UK Support Groups Partnership Programme, the team has gained access to additional training, resources, and guidance to further enhance the quality of the meetings. Participation in the programme has also extended the reach of the group, with attendees travelling from across the country to take part. We have had an average of 25 patient and carers attend these meetings since this collaboration.

This partnership with Myeloma UK has also led to the myeloma teams at King’s College Hospital NHS FT participating in the Clinical Service Excellence Programme (CSEP). This nationally recognised accreditation programme supports services to demonstrate excellence in myeloma care while identifying opportunities for continuous improvement. Both hospitals were proud to receive their CSEP accreditation in March 2026 with a score of ‘excellent’ for both sites.

Prabneet Pramar, Support Group Coordinator at Myeloma UK said:

“Since the start of 2024, Myeloma UK worked with the team at King’s Health Partners, to help with the relaunch of the local myeloma support group, to support myeloma patients, family members and carers. 

“With the determination of Archana, Marie, and the myeloma team at King’s College Hospital NHS FT, this group has quickly become a roaring success. After attending a group meeting in 2024, it was clear to see how much this group has become a valuable part of a person’s myeloma journey. The group is very welcoming and inclusive, and it is a vital service which ensures that those affected by myeloma don’t have to go through it alone. The team have done a fantastic job at relaunching the support group, and it’s clear how much support and information attendees get out of each meeting. Myeloma UK is very proud to have partnered with such a great team and look forward to seeing how the group grows and develops in the future.”

KHP Haematology is immensely proud of the positive and lasting impact the myeloma support group meetings continue to have on patients and their carers. Beyond providing emotional support, these meetings help reduce isolation, build confidence and strengthen connections between patients, carers, and clinical teams. None of this would be possible without the commitment, generosity, and collaboration of our charity partners. Together, these partnerships exemplify the power of working collectively to improve patient experience, enhance care pathways and ensure that those affected by myeloma feel supported at every stage of their journey.

Find out more about the work of KHP Haematology.