A SOUTHAMPTON cancer centre is urgently appealing for more volunteers.
The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre based at University Hospital Southampton has put a call-out for more volunteers to help support services offered to people affected by cancer.
Currently, there are just 10 cancer support volunteers at the centre.
Their role includes meeting and giving support o anyone who comes through the front door.
Brenda Whitby who has volunteered at the centre since 2015 said: “I really enjoy being a Macmillan volunteer as you’re helping people through difficult times and when they need it most.
“Patients and families come here because it’s a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the main hospital, they can feel relaxed and are welcome to sit quietly or talk and we will always listen.”
Volunteers aim to provide a warm and comfortable space for support and information
They offer access to a range of other services including therapies, supportive listening, counselling, welfare benefits advice, relaxation groups, fatigue management and well-being workshops.
The centre is looking to recruit additional cancer support volunteers, qualified counsellors and complementary therapists.
“We are very fortunate to have such a great team of long-standing volunteers but we are now looking to add to our amazing team as we continue to recover from the pandemic,” said Andrea Lodge, Macmillan information and support centre manager.
“Volunteers are vital to our service, with their help we are able to support around 500 visitors a month, help people cope with their diagnosis and provide a non-clinical space on the hospital site where people can take time out and access any support they need.2 Donna Allain, reflexologist, reiki practitioner and massage therapist has worked at the centre since 2012.
She said: “I love coming to the Macmillan centre to give complementary therapy treatments to patients because you can see the impact relaxation has on people who are going through tough times."
Training and continual support is provided to all volunteers.
If anyone would like to find out more about volunteering at the centre contact Andrea or Emma on 02381 206503 or email MacmillanCentre@uhs.nhs.uk.
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