Cancer support service ready to open

A NEW Macmillan Cancer information and support service in Oban Library will be officially opened by Provost Len Scoullar and Brendan O’Hara MP on Monday June 20.

The service has been developed in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, Argyll and Bute Council, NHS Highland and Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface to provide much-needed support for people living with cancer, their families and carers.

A team of specially trained volunteers run the service and offer one-to- one emotional support, guidance with information materials on various aspects of cancer and its treat- ment or simply a listening ear over a cup of tea.

They can also point people in the right direction for other specialist services such as financial advice, walking groups and local support organisations. There is a dedicated drop-in area as well as private rooms. The drop-in runs on Wednesdays from 2.15pm to 4.15pm in the library.

Elspeth Atkinson, director of Macmillan Cancer Support in Scotland, said: ‘It is thanks to the hard work and dedication of our supporters in Argyll and Bute who raise so much money for us that we are able to establish such a vital service. Macmillan believes that no- one should face cancer alone and the continued support from people locally will help us to ensure that no one does.’

Provost Scoullar added: ‘ Everyone who is part of a community can play a part in supporting and developing that community. We recognise the need to support people through times of ill health and in setting up this innovative initiative, we are providing a comfortable, welcoming environment for community volunteers to meet people living with or affected by cancer.’

Christina West, chief officer for Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, said: ‘This is an invaluable service to the local community and I am delighted it is providing information and support to our patients, their families, carers and friends.’