Govan cafe offering vital cancer service is set to close its doors
A GOVAN cafe launched by Sir Alex Ferguson to offer support to cancer patients is to shut its doors.
The Pearce cafe, a partnerships by Macmillan Cancer Support, Glasgow City Council and the Pearce Institute, opened its doors in 2015.
Just three years on from its initial success, the cancer charity said the number of people using the cafe and support services available has begun to decline, forcing bosses to close it for good.
The opening of other local cafes and organisations offering free meals is thought to have had an impact on its popularity, alongside the availability of other local cancer support services.
Macmillan’s head in Scotland, Janice Preston, said: “We’re very sad to see the closure of the Pearce cafe, however unfortunately after initial success, fewer and fewer people used the cafe or the support services it offered.
“After a number of attempts to encourage people to use the cafe, all partners involved in the social enterprise took the very difficult decision to close it at the end of September.
“Macmillan would like to reassure people that the same level of cancer support is still available to the people of Govan.
“We have support and information services in most libraries in Glasgow, including in Govan, and have specialist benefits advice and practical support available over the phone or through a home visit.”
Anyone in need of cancer support in Govan or anywhere in Glasgow can contact Macmillan’s Improving the Cancer Journey service for help on 0141 287 7077.
Sir Alex Ferguson returned to his hometown to unveil the addition to the cancer charity’s Pearce Institute service in June 2015.
Speaking at the time, he
letters@ eveningtimes. co.uk said: “I’m proud to see all the things that have happened here.
“This is a fantastic building that used to be the very heart of Govan.
“I really hope the improvements here continue.”
The cafe broke the news on social media on Tuesday to the shock of local residents.
Helen Keeney said: “Sad news this is closing, will be missed so much by the people of Govan especially the regular people who support the cafe every day.”
Helen Pollock also added: “Will miss you all.”