A NEWLY formed Cancer Alliance in Bude is hoping that those affected by cancer will attend their upcoming listening event, to share their views on how local cancer services can be improved, and also to find out more about a new information hub and transport scheme.

The event, organised by Bude and Stratton Cancer Support (Bude and Stratton Town Council, Primary Care Network Coast and Country, and Macmillan Cancer Support), will be held on Monday, March 21, 2pm to 4pm, at The Parkhouse Centre, Ivor Potter Hall, Bude.

Speaking of the collaboration, Jennifer Oke, Coast & Country PCN Cancer Care Coordinator, shared her excitement, and what attendees can expect from the day: “We are hoping that the Cancer Alliance’s first listening event will really help people living with cancer locally. Anyone affected by cancer is welcome to attend and learn more about the new services for the area, which will include a weekly walk-in cancer information centre and an affordable transportation scheme to get people to vital hospital appointments.”

Bude and Stratton Mayor, Cllr Amanda Tame, encourages everyone to come along: “We want to hear from you. The afternoon will be a drop-in with a chance to chat with other people affected by cancer and some professionals including the local NHS Primary Care Network, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Bude/Stratton Town Councillors.”

As an additional incentive, complimentary refreshments will be provided, courtesy of the Bude Macmillan Fundraising Group. The session is deliberately informal, allowing people to drop-in for as long as they feel able.

Di Charlton, Macmillan Cancer Support, engagement lead, added: “Listening is very much at the heart of Macmillan’s work. It is how we learn to improve the help we give to those affected by cancer. Events like these are vital to the success of local cancer services offering. The Bude and Stratton Cancer Alliance will be launching a series of face-to-face support groups. As an alliance, we welcome all suggestions of how these should be run. If you live locally and have been affected by cancer — we would greatly value your opinion.”