MUSIC in operating theatres has long been the norm to help surgeons get on with their work.

But now, cancer clinics in East Lancashire are also tuning in to musical sounds - and being told by patients it increases their sense of privacy,

According to a new research, it allows them to discuss personal matters without being overheard.

Music is just one the suggestions to come from East Lancashire NHS Trust's Cancer Patient Partnership, one of the first of its kind in the country.

It invites former sufferers from the area to draw from their experiences and give opinions on how things can be improved for those receiving treatment.

One of the first people to get involved in the project was John Fay, of Clitheroe. He spent four years being treated for lung cancer and returns to clinics once every six months.

"The NHS is remarkably good at the big things, like performing operations," said John. "But sometimes it can fall down on the little things.

"By making a number of small changes, major improvements can be made for patients. We as patients are an enormous resource for the NHS because we have a unique perspective."

John, along with fellow former patients - including Angie Pickup, of Burnley, and Doreen Wheeler, from Rossendale - helped design the patient satisfaction surveys and suggested that the results be posted for visitors to see.

Other work by the group includes a review of guidelines for staff on how to break bad news.

Sally Steward, cancer services development manager at the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "The input from patients is vital as they often have a unique perspective that only comes from having experienced health care.

"Many of the suggestions are small changes but ones which can make all the difference, with very little cost.

"For example, having wheelchairs in the correct position so users with mobility difficulties do not have to walk long distances, introducing background music in clinics to protect patient privacy or redesigning patient information leaflets."

Doreen, who works as a volunteer at the Burnley Breast Clinic, said: "We have been made very welcome and also very involved."

John, however, now wants more cancer patients to come on board.

He said: "There have been a lot of changes since I came on to the Cancer Patient Partnership Group so it is important more new members join."

Anyone wanting to get involved should call 01772 647040.