A COUNSELLING service for cancer patients in York has been delayed because of difficulty in recruiting a clinical psychologist.

The new psycho-oncology service, which aims to boost a patient's response to other treatment, was due to start next month after York Against Cancer agreed to fund the post until 2005 when York Health Services NHS Trust will take on the cost.

But recruitment problems have led to the scheme being put back four months until September.

A spokesman for the trust said only a small number of applications had been received from candidates for the specialised, senior post, and those who applied were not suitable for such a demanding role.

He said the post had been re-advertised and a new applicant would be chosen before September, leaving time for the successful candidate to give two months' notice to their current employer.

Under the psycho-oncology scheme, patients at York Hospital's Cancer Care Centre will be seen by a consultant psychologist, who will help them through the shock of diagnosis, through the trauma of treatment and hopefully the elation of recovery.

Psychological care has been proven to reduce disability and distress, leading to improved quality of life and an improved response to other treatment.

The £200,000 grant from York Against Cancer will fund the consultant psychologist and administrative support for two years. But from 2005 an integrated psycho-oncology service will be set up with a consultant psychiatrist, psychologist, clinical nurse specialist, social worker, specialist chaplain and clerical workers.

Philip Mackley, secretary of York Against Cancer, said the service was needed as soon as possible, even in a limited form.

But it was also necessary to find the right person.

He said: "It's disappointing that they couldn't get someone straight away. But that's the way the labour market is unfortunately.

"It just shows that these people are in great demand or that not enough are being trained.

"However, I'm sure they will find someone soon."

The charity launched an appeal in February to raise the £200,000 and has already reached a total of £47,000.

Updated: 10:55 Monday, April 21, 2003