Mayor of Raunds visits charity supporting local people affected by cancer

Recently, the Mayor and Mayoress of Raunds, Cllr Bill Cross and Marilyn Cross, visited Maggie’s Northampton at Northampton General Hospital to learn more about the support the charity provides to people affected by cancer and their families.

The Mayor and Mayoress met Jenni, a Centre Fundraiser, and were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the centre, learning more about how the charity and its volunteers operate and support people visiting the centre throughout the day.

Although based at Northampton General Hospital, Maggie’s provides support to people affected by cancer across Northamptonshire, including residents of Raunds and the surrounding area. The service is completely free and does not require an appointment.

Maggie’s offers a welcoming space where people affected by cancer can access advice and support from trained cancer support specialists, psychologists and benefits advisers, alongside dedicated support groups, wellbeing activities and peer support. Friends and family members can also access support.

Jenni Parker, Centre Fundraiser for Maggie’s Northampton, said: “Maggie’s is a national charity that offers support to people with cancer and their loved ones from centres across the UK. In October, the Maggie’s Northampton centre opened, and from our beautifully designed building on the edge of Northampton General Hospital it provides a warm and welcoming space for anyone affected by cancer. Alongside this, we offer support from cancer support specialists, advice around benefits and employment while living with cancer, wellbeing activities, and peer support.

“Our centre is open five days a week, appointments are not necessary, and anyone who needs support is welcome to drop in during our opening hours. Many patients visit us between treatment sessions, as they find our environment more relaxing and comfortable than the amenities available within the hospital.”

Mayor of Raunds, Cllr Bill Cross, said: “The Mayoress and I were delighted to be invited to Maggie’s and to learn more about the valuable support it provides to people affected by cancer and their loved ones. Although the centre is based in Northampton, the support is available to people from across the county. We were particularly pleased to have the opportunity to see firsthand how the team and volunteers support those who need it most and to learn more about the services available to local families.

“We both left astounded by the amount of work Maggie’s and its volunteers undertake and the difference they make to people at what can be an incredibly difficult time. We hope that this visit also helps to raise awareness among residents of Raunds about the support that is available to them.”