New cancer support centre opens its doors
People living with the disease have met staff at the new centre
- Published
People affected by cancer are being offered support at a new centre.
NHS bosses said the service in Newark, Nottinghamshire, aimed to help patients, their families, carers, employers or anyone affected by the disease.
The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service (MCISS) at the YMCA Community and Activity Village in Lord Hawke Way has been set up in response to feedback from patients.
It aims to provide to information and support in a community setting rather than a traditional hospital environment.
Workers will also signpost people who visit the centre to other organisations which can help address concerns that may stem from cancer.
The centre, which has an on-site cafe, is being run as an extension of the existing service at King's Mill Hospital by Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Macmillan Cancer Support, which says it is the first facility of its kind in the UK.
It is open Monday to Friday 8:30 to 16:00 BST and offers drop-in services and appointments for personalised support.
Workers will also signpost people who visit the centre to other organisations which can help address concerns that may stem from cancer, including physical, practical, emotional, social and financial issues.
The NHS trust says around 250 people are diagnosed with cancer every year in the Newark postcode area.
'Welcoming space'
Andrea Murphy, Macmillan cancer information and support service lead at Sherwood Forest Hospitals, said: "We are excited that the people of Newark and surrounding areas can access support on their doorstep.
"The journey from Newark to our King's Mill Macmillan Centre can feel overwhelming for people affected by cancer, especially if they feel unwell or are fed up with attending hospital appointments.
"The YMCA is a welcoming space where several organisations will come together under one roof to support people.
"We hope that it will encourage individuals to access the support they need and that it will be of great benefit to the local community."
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