New Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre opens in Newark

A new support and information centre has opened in town, to help people affected by cancer.

A Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service (MCISS) has now started to welcome service users at the YMCA Community and Activity Village, on Lord Hawke Way, Newark.

Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is working in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support to provide the vital service in response to feedback from patients.

Around 250 people a year in the Newark NG24 postcode area are diagnosed with cancer, and feedback held by the trust shows that people welcome care and support closer to home.

A Macmillan information library will remain at the Eastwood Centre in Newark Hospital, and will signpost people to the MCISS.

The new centre is an extension of the existing service at King’s Mill Hospital and is the first of its kind nationally. It is designed to provide information and support in a friendly and welcoming community setting rather than a traditional hospital environment.

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.”

Open from 8.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, the service offers drop-in services and appointments for personalised support. Advice will also be available to address worries and concerns that may stem from cancer — including physical, practical, emotional, social, and financial issues.

Anyone affected by cancer — including patients, carers, family, friends, employers, and staff working with those affected by cancer — can access support through the service.

The service is currently recruiting ambassadors to help share information within their communities and contribute to the development of the new service.

Anyone who is interested can email sfh-tr.cancer.info@nhs.net to sign up to receive a regular newsletter.

To contact the service, call 01636 681681 ext 5936 or 07553 726425, or email sfh-tr.cancer.info@nhs.net.

Alternatively, you can call the Macmillan Support Line seven days a week, 8am to 8pm on 0808 808 00 00.