Patients travelling to the UK for hospital treatment are being given more advice about the journey process.

A new information leaflet has been produced which explains what happens when a patient is referred to a UK specialist and goes through the Patient Transfer Service.

It outlines each step of the journey – from the airport check-in, transfers, special assistance available, support for friends and relatives and overnight stays.

The leaflet has been funded by the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group.

Chairman Julie Stokes says: "The leaflet contains lots of useful information and phone numbers to help them cope with what can be a tiring and stressful day.

"Getting through airport security is a worry for many patients, particularly those who travel with Stoma bags or are wearing wigs and headscarves - understandably, these people are concerned about searches.

"We wanted to produce a leaflet which would help them get through with the minimum of fuss and embarrassment."

The leaflet also provides information about the quiet rooms available to patients at Ronaldsway and Liverpool airports which were created in partnership with the charity, airport authorities and the Department of Infrastructure.

Around 10,500 return journeys to the UK are organised each year costing ?3.5 million.