The scheme is being launched at the hospital next month by the UK cosmetic industry’s charity Look Good Feel Better to help patients regain their confidence and self-esteem at a time when they need it most.

Pampering workshops, described as “real girlie afternoons”, will offer patients free beauty advice and treatment and will initially be held every two months.

A number of national retail chains are donating the services of their beauticians free, and local private beauticians have also volunteered to give their time and expertise – although the charity is always looking for more help.

Volunteer co-ordinator Karen Cameron, who is recovering from cancer herself and still attends the hospital, said: “The idea is to lift the spirits of these ladies at a time when they could really do with a boost – when they’ve been having chemotherapy.

“Losing your hair and eyebrows can be quite traumatic for a woman, so it’s important to know how to make the best of yourself.”

Patients will also receive a make-up bag filled with skincare and make-up products individually tailored to them.

The first pampering session will be held at the hospital’s Macmillan Cancer Care and Treatment Centre on Wednesday, February 20.

Look Good Feel Better was founded 15 years ago to help women combat the visible side effects of cancer treatment.

More than 50,000 women have been helped in that time, and nearly 900 volunteers have donated their time.

The QEH was nominated for the workshop scheme by QEH oncology consultant Dr Margaret Daly and lead cancer nurse Sister Bev Perryman and was selected following an in-depth interview by the charity, in competition with other hospitals.