This excellent new centre offers help and support to people affected by cancer.

The Countess of Chester Hospital officially opened its Macmillan Support and Information Centre recently which offers help and support to people affected by cancer, including those who are diagnosed with the illness as well as their family and friends.

People who have been affected by cancer joined the Trust's Executives, Trust Governors, members of the public, Macmillan staff and volunteers as well as Stephen Mosley (MP for The City of Chester), to celebrate the opening of the centre with a cutting of the ribbon. The event was also supported by a cake sale.

The new centre - which is based on the Countess' hospital site near to the main entrance - provides a purpose built base for the Macmillan Support and Information Service which started three years ago.  The service is open to anyone affected by cancer - including patients, their family and carers, the worried well and people who have completed their treatment. Macmillan Support and Information Manager, Liz Taylor said: "I am delighted to announce the opening of this excellent facility. This new centre builds on the amazing work that has gone on over the last three years within the Trust and it will benefit over 250,000 patients in the local area. We have already helped over 1000 people over the last four months by answering their questions and worries relating to cancer, such as the financial issues associated with a cancer diagnosis, the general impact of living with cancer, and how to find support locally. Over 70% of these people have been first-time users of the service which means we are reaching a whole new audience who need support like ours. Having this dedicated and comfortable space within the hospital means that we will be able to grow the service and reach even more people."

Former cancer patient, Helen Lucy, was guest of honour at the event and officially opened the centre. She commented: "When I was diagnosed with cancer I had no idea a service like the Macmillan Support and Information Service existed. All things go through your mind when you experience cancer and it affects you and your family deeply. Having a service like this to ask for support is extremely valuable through the cancer journey. This is a fantastic service and due to its prominent location in the hospital hopefully many people will make use of the support available. The facilities and the Macmillan team are all fantastic and I am privileged to cut the ribbon."

During a visit to the Countess, Stephen Mosley (MP for The City of Chester) was present at the opening and emphasised Helen's sentiments by congratulating the Trust on the opening of an excellent facility. The new building also acts as a resource centre for professionals involved in the care and management of cancer patients, and will provide generic information to those with other life limiting illnesses.

For any further information about the Macmillan Information Centre, please contact Macmillan Support and Information Manager, Liz Taylor on 01244 364948.