A new partnership between Cancer Council NSW and AccorHotels will provide reduced-rate accommodation for cancer patients travelling for treatment. Cancer patients on the far north coast and Northern Rivers will be able to take advantage of the partnership when they are required to travel for their cancer treatment. The Cancer Council said in a media release that carers and their family members will have access to hundreds of affordable rooms at 62 AccorHotels properties close to treatment facilities in greater Sydney and other locations across NSW. The new partnership will complement the current NSW Government’s Isolated Patients Transport and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS). The overall financial burden of cancer will be reduced for these patients when they claim the commercial IPTAAS rate on these rooms. Manager of Cancer Council NSW Northern Region Rhian Paton-Kelly said, “We are excited to be able to strengthen our pre-existing support services, which Cancer Council NSW provides for local patients, carers and their families. “These services include our phone line 131 120 Information and Support, transport to treatment and peer support. Rowena Terone of Cancer Council NSW said, “The new service will enhance our range of invaluable accommodation relationships across the state, including the wonderful facilities provided by Our House that we currently refer patients to who are being treated closer to home.” Hotel staff will be trained to deal with specific dietary and housekeeping requirements. Rooms will have a Cancer Council NSW support pack providing information on other cancer support services, which will aid patients and their families during treatment away from home. Cancer patients who require accommodation are encouraged to visit www.cancercouncil.com.au/accommodation or call Cancer Council NSW on 13 11 20 to discuss their options.