Chantry Library relaunches Cancer Support Group

Suffolk Libraries has been working with Macmillan Cancer Support to relaunch cancer support groups in libraries after the pandemic.

Work to establish support groups at some of the county’s libraries had begun before the pandemic thanks to a grant from Macmillan. With the return of events and activities in libraries the aim is get them up and running again in the coming months. The support group at Chantry Library is the first to relaunch on Monday 28 June.

Kellie Dimmock, Suffolk Libraries Information for Living Librarian said:

“Suffolk Libraries are delighted to be working in Partnership with Macmillan to run cancer support groups in our libraries. Although the groups have been interrupted by the pandemic, we are delighted to start getting these groups running again. Combining trusted, quality Macmillan cancer information resources and our friendly relaxed library spaces have given people an opportunity to drop-in for all that important help and advice and to speak to someone else in their position for a chat and a cup of tea. The aim is to relaunch and establish other library groups in the coming months.”

Macmillan’s Engagement Lead Sarah Macleay is working with several Suffolk libraries to establish these groups. She said:

“Libraries are a much-loved local community space that is neutral, present in all communities, and known for trusted information and signposting. Partnering with libraries allows local cancer support groups to develop in a way that suits their community, led by local people with their own cancer experience. Cancer affects every part of a person’s life and we want everyone to know how to get support with money issues, their rights at work, their family, and whatever else matters to them. Being part of a group gives people that space to share their stories and support each other, whilst also having access to trusted information that allows them to support themselves and those they love.”

The Chantry Library support group relaunches on Monday 28 June at Chantry Library between 2.30pm and 4pm and will then run on the first Monday of every month. There will also be the option to join in a game of Bingo, for those who fancy it. Refreshments are also available. Contact Chanty Library for more information on 01473 927275.

You can also access a wide range of Macmillan information leaflets online via Suffolk Libraries Overdrive eLibrary service.