A "state-of-the-art" Macmillan Cancer Support centre has opened its doors after "months" of construction.
The centre was officially opened by Oldham mayor, Cllr Zahid Chauhan, on Friday, September 20.
The new centre provides accessible face to face support for people affected by cancer across Greater Manchester.
It has been designed to focus on them as individuals, equipping thousands more people with the opportunity to access support tailored to their needs, both onsite and through outreach services into the community.
The new centre will bring much needed cancer information and support into the heart of the community, reducing the need for people to travel to multiple locations for support which Macmillan say will vastly improve their patient experience, the support they receive and their quality of life.
Alison McCarthy, Macmillan associate director of nursing for cancer for Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, says: “I’m really thrilled and excited to see the new Macmillan Cancer Support Centre at The Royal Oldham Hospital now officially open.
"The need for such a facility in Oldham was identified many years ago, so I’m thrilled to have seen the vision and plan come to fruition.
“The centre will benefit people living with cancer in the Oldham area and beyond.
"We’ve already has lots of people in the local community keen to use the new facility.
"So far, we’ve offered opportunities to support people both on a one-to -one basis, as well as plans to accommodate support groups and other group initiatives.
“This excellent and aesthetically pleasing environment will improve the quality of care and experience for all our patients and families who seek support for years to come.”
The centre will serve both people living with and after cancer as well as their loved ones who have also been affected.
Service users have sung the praises of the charity, with one user saying: “Since speaking to you, I feel that I’ve already received so much support.
"My benefits are getting sorted I know what’s happening with my mortgage and I’m trying things like complementary therapy to help with my anxiety.
"I can’t thank you enough; I didn’t know where to turn before speaking to you."
Family members have also found it beneficial, with a loved one saying: “I always know I can contact you and you will listen to me and help me if I need your help.
"It means a lot because sometimes I feel bad feeling how I feel when it isn’t me who has to go through everything, so knowing I can speak and tell you how I feel makes a difference and is helping me get through it all."
Sarah Plant, Macmillan information and support service assistant manager, said: "Dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatment is incredibly tough and it is important that we come together as a clinical team and community to support those going through this crucial time in their lives.
"The state-of-the-art centre will provide a friendly face and someone to turn to when things can be challenging, all while ensuring support is focused and tailored to each individual."
The centre is located near the main outpatients entrance on Rochdale Road and is open Monday to Friday, 8.30am until 4pm excluding bank holidays with no appointment needed.
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