Building group backs cancer centre
Members of a builders’ organisation have raised £1,000 to help support cancer patients and their families in Sunderland.
The Federation of Master Builders is mainly known as a source of high quality builders, but their regional groups, particularly Sunderland, are passionate about giving back to their community.
The Sunderland members have contributed to many worthy causes in the area, but this year have chosen the Cancer Information and Support Centre at Sunderland Royal Hospital.
The group raised the money by hosting a dinner and dance at the city’s Marriot Hotel with members as well as friends and family attending.
Secretary Barry Robinson said: “We were so surprised to raise such an amount. The generosity on the evening from everyone who supported the raffle was overwhelming. We never expected to donate £1,000 and are pleased to support such a worthy cause at our local hospital – many thanks to all.”
The Sunderland Cancer Information and Support Centre opened at the Royal Hospital in 2011, initially funded by Macmillan Cancer Support.
The centre is now run by City Hospitals Sunderland, with Deborah Spraggon managing the centre day to day.
She said: “We can’t thank members of the Federation of Master Builders enough for their support – it really does make such a difference.
“Staff and volunteers are available to those who need us because of support like this, and we’re able to provide bandanas, ‘Look Good Feel Better’ courses to help build patients’ self-esteem and confidence during cancer treatment, and helping patients with financial and legal issues.”