Macmillan Cancer Information Centre opens at Northwick Park Hospital
26-Jun-2007
The new Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre at Northwick Park Hospital was formally opened today by the Mayor of Brent, Councillor Harshadbhai B. Patel.
Funds for the £220,000 centre at the main entrance of the hospital were raised by Macmillan supporters in the area along with a contribution of £25,000 from the Trust’s League of Friends.
The centre, which has been running since May, is manned by experienced Macmillan clinical nurse specialists and trained volunteers and provides information and advice to patients, carers and the public on cancer as well as other health and lifestyle issues.
Cllr Patel said: “I am delighted to be opening the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre at Northwick Park Hospital. When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it can be an uncertain and confusing time – for both them and their family and friends. The new centre is a place people can go to find out more about cancer and its treatment in a supportive, caring environment.”
Macmillan Director for the region, Stephen Richards, said: “I would like to thank all those involved in the successful launch of this wonderful service that will make a positive difference to people affected by cancer.
“The free service is supported by Macmillan professionals and volunteers equipped to answer questions and alleviate some of that added pressure by providing excellent information and support, whenever people need it.”
The centre includes a quiet room for patients and visitors to talk in private with one of the nurses as well as access to a directory of cancer books in the local libraries, information about local and national support agencies and free guided internet access for cancer related searches.
A new reception for the hospital is also being built alongside the information centre which is part of a major refurbishment programme to corridors, toilets and public areas in the hospital taking place this spring and summer.
North West London Hospitals NHS Trust Non-Executive Director, Dr John Rhys, said: “A large number of people will benefit from the information and expert advice that this new service provides. The accessible location, at the main entrance of Northwick Park Hospital, means that people with cancer and their families and friends can easily drop in for a chat. On behalf of the Trust, I would like to thank everyone who has given up their time to help raise funds for the centre or to offer their support.”
ENDS
Note to Editors
Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support. Working alongside people affected by cancer, Macmillan works to improve cancer care. One in three of us will get cancer. 1.2 million of us are living with it. If you are affected by cancer Macmillan can help. www.macmillan.org.uk.