A CHARITY is encouraging Andover residents affected by cancer to drop in for a chat at the Health Hub in the Chantry Centre.

Wessex Cancer Support provides free cancer wellbeing sessions at the Health Hub every Tuesday between 10am and 1pm.

Anyone affected by cancer can simply drop in, have a cup of tea and chat with a friendly member of the team about their feelings and concerns.

The charity also runs a walking group at 10.30am every Tuesday.

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People can meet outside Waitrose for a social walk and a breath of fresh air along the scenic path of Rooksberry Mill, with the option of finishing at The Lights for refreshments.

The walk lasts for about an hour and you can just turn up on the day.

The sessions provide a safe space for those affected by cancer and their loved ones.

The wellbeing sessions are designed for anyone who may appreciate talking or having non-judgemental company through confusing thoughts and feelings.    

Wessex Cancer Support currently provides a range of wellbeing services at its four Support Centres in Chandler’s Ford, Bournemouth, Hythe and Newport on the Isle of Wight. 

Andover was identified as an area where there is a lack of cancer support and where more provision would benefit local people.  

Colette Cowan, Wessex Cancer Support’s head of services, says she understands taking the first steps to cancer support can be daunting.

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She said: “Living with cancer can be really tough and you may be experiencing thoughts and feelings you’re not used to. Maybe you’d like to have a chat with someone outside of your main circle of friends and family. Our drop-in sessions are a really informal opportunity to come along and chat with a member of our team about how you’re feeling. Whatever you’re going through, we’re here for you.” 

Wessex Cancer Support would also love to hear from volunteers who would like to support the wellbeing sessions.

If you can help, please contact katie.davies@wessexcancer.org.uk. 

If you can’t make the sessions but would like to find out more, visit wessexcancer.org.uk, call 023 8051 6576 or email careteam@wessexcancer.org.uk.