The YMCA Community & Activity Village is proud to announce the opening of the first-ever Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre in a community setting – the first of its kind in the UK.
This new centre, developed in partnership with Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Macmillan Cancer Support, is a significant milestone in providing accessible cancer information and support in a welcoming community environment. The YMCA is excited to be part of this groundbreaking initiative, offering a place where people affected by cancer can access the help and support they need, close to home.
On Tuesday 10 June 2025, service user Andrea Ellis officially opened the centre, cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion. She was joined by Gemma Peters, Chief Executive of Macmillan Cancer Support, and representatives from Sherwood Forest Hospitals and the YMCA.
Andrea Ellis shared, “People affected by cancer often share similar experiences, and in a venue like this, rather than in a hospital, you’re more likely to meet others who understand what you’re going through. This centre feels like a place of comfort and understanding.”
The centre offers a wide range of support services, including physical, emotional, social, financial, and practical wellbeing assistance, all under one roof. It is already helping local individuals and families navigate the challenges of cancer, providing them with a supportive, non-hospital environment to seek guidance and reassurance.
YMCA is proud to support this vital service, helping ensure that people in Newark and the surrounding areas have access to the information and care they need as they face cancer.
The opening event featured information stalls from several partner organisations, including Self Help UK, Macmillan Beyond Diagnosis, Primary Integrated Community Services Social Prescribing, and more. These groups, alongside key local partners such as Newark and Sherwood District Council and NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board, contribute to a collaborative effort to support those impacted by cancer.
Naseem Akhtar, a service user, said: “This service provides the comfort of knowing someone is always available to answer any concerns. It’s like a one-stop shop for all the help and advice I might need.”
Gemma Peters, Chief Executive of Macmillan Cancer Support, added: “This project represents many years of collaboration and is already showing how much easier it is for people to access the support they need when it’s available in their own community.”
The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre is open Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 4pm, and offers drop-in services as well as personalised appointments. In addition to the support services, the centre is growing its timetable of community events, including walking groups, craft and chat sessions, Look Good Feel Better workshops, and carer support groups.
For more information or to contact the service, please call 01636 681681 ext 5936 or 07553 726425, or email sfh-tr.cancer.info@nhs.net. You can also reach the Macmillan Support Line 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm at 0808 808 00 00 or visit macmillan.org.uk.
