Ipswich: New cancer wellbeing centre to provide 'safe space'

Located in St Margaret's Street, the site has been set up the Cancer Campaign in Suffolk as a support centre for people recovering from cancer, those who have received a diagnosis and family members of those with the disease.

"It's a safe space for people to come and talk," said the campaign group's chief executive, Karen Hare. 

Karen Hare, chief executive of Cancer Campaign in Suffolk (Image: Lucy Taylor)

"We want people to feel comfortable and to feel like they're at home - almost like they're in their living rooms. 

"Anyone can pop in for a coffee and a chat."

Counselling is available for those who need it, with professionals on hand to talk about anything from bereavement to trauma therapy.

Bosses hope that the service can help ease pressure on NHS waiting lists.

"We work closely with Ipswich Hospital and we see the pressure their councillors are under at the moment," said Karen.

"This is a particular problem at the moment because people are facing so many anxieties at the moment with the cost of living.

"Those who are affected by cancer are also being affected by other concerns such as heating and cooking. These two things are particularly essential when you're suffering with this disease so they can't afford to miss them.

"We hope that this hub can alleviate some of this pressure and ensure we help as many people as possible."

The service will also run a number of clinics, including beauty workshops for those undergoing or recovering from treatment.

"So many women I speak to say they would rather go through surgery again than lose their hair. 

"These sessions can hopefully teach them how to cope and feel comfortable in themselves."

The hub is open from 10am to 2pm (Image: Karen Hare)

The centre will be open from 10am to 2pm on weekdays and the hub's services are available for anyone who needs it.

"It's vital we help as many people as possible," said Karen.

"We never want to let anyone down.

"So many people with cancer or affected by cancer don't want to talk or just don't know what to say. This is about making them feel comfortable enough to come forward and talk.

"You may feel as though you don't need the service and that's absolutely fine. But it's important people know there is always somewhere for them to come, to have a coffee and chat with someone who understands."