A support service that has helped almost 50,000 people affected by cancer has marked 10 years since its launch as a specialist service.
The Macmillan cancer information centre was first opened at the University Hospital of North Tees in 2016 as a service to help those impacted by cancer.
Soon after this and with its team of volunteers expanding, the service also opened an office at the University Hospital of Hartlepool.
The drop-in service is run by Macmillan team members Alan Chandler, Rachel Humble and Alison Parsons alongside a dedicated team of 24 volunteers.
Reflecting on a decade managing the service, cancer information manager Alan said: “What we have achieved over this time has been incredible.
“Starting as a simple drop-in service for patients and their loved ones, we have grown and opened up new services.
“These have included our catch up calls service, our support groups like craft and chat and incurable cancer group, the headwear service for patients with hair loss, the look good feel better service for women and the professional financial advice given.
“Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do and our cancer information centres couldn’t run without them. The work they do makes such a difference to patients, staff and visitors.
“I can’t thank them enough for everything they have done and continue to do. I also want to say a huge message of gratitude to all of the staff we have worked with over the 10 years we have been running, going above and beyond to help us and to help those people impacted by cancer who come to us.”
The event also included special certificates for Ann Marie Brown and Susan Henderson who have both volunteered since the centre first opened.
If you are thinking about volunteering and would like more information, please get in touch with the service on 01642 383041 or visit one of our centres in the University Hospital of North Tees or the University Hospital of Hartlepool.