Bosses at a Norfolk hospital have pledged to improve breast cancer services following a survey of patients.

A new information booklet was launched yesterday by officials at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital as a result of a partnership with charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer. A new programme dedicated to improving services follows a survey of patients who have used the trust's breast cancer service – from diagnosis through to final treatment – over the last six to 12 months.

Officials from the NNUH said the results of the survey showed a number of areas where the breast cancer service was good, but also identified areas where further improvements could be made.

Patient feedback led to a new information booklet for patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, detailing the hospital trust's commitment to the pledge, and setting out exactly what patients can expect from their breast cancer treatment.

Through the initiative, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, which is working towards a future free from the fear of breast cancer, supports individual hospitals to develop their very own pledges tailored to the needs of local patients.

Joanne McGrath, NNUH lead breast care nurse specialist, said: 'We will constantly strive to improve the breast service, ensuring that we offer optimal patient-centred care. We pride ourselves on the compassionate attitude of our staff and providing the best possible care of our patients is always our priority.'

Emily Heard, from Breakthrough Breast Cancer, added: 'It's the little things like bringing a friend to an appointment that can make a huge difference to breast cancer patients. The service pledge helps patients to speak up about what matters most to them about their local service and helps the hospital to improve these things.'

Gay Kencroft, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in November, said: 'The staff who've dealt with me have all been excellent, very caring and professional. I hope that with the NNUH signing this pledge it will ensure that all staff who have contact with patients meet these high standards at all times.'