Cancer support from Macmillan continues with range of virtual classes throughout the pandemic

The Horizon Centre, opposite the Sussex Cancer Centre in Brighton, is temporarily closed to its usual visitors due to the pandemic. But the determined centre staff have found a safe way to continue to support local people affected by cancer.

The team is offering vital emotional, practical and financial support over the phone, through counselling, welfare benefits advice, and information and signposting.

They have also started a number of new virtual sessions including:

Horizon Connect - a 45-minute group support session that gives an opportunity to connect with the Horizon Centre staff, as well as other people with similar experiences and concerns.

Classes on managing anxiety, breathing workshop, pilates, yoga and acupressure.

Working with FareShare and Mhairi Donald, senior Macmillan dietician at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, the Horizon Centre Café is also distributing food packs for patients who are struggling to get to the shops.

Geoff Brown, centre manager, said: “Despite the incredibly difficult and uncertain situation every one of us has found ourselves in, we knew how important it was to keep going and to be there for the people who depend on our support, now more than ever. Though our doors are temporarily closed and many of us are working alone for everyone’s safety, we are very much still here for people affected by cancer in Brighton and surrounding areas.”

To book an appointment or chat to one of the team call 01273 468 770 or email [email protected].

The services are open to anyone living in Brighton and the surrounding areas in Sussex.

geoff said: “At a time where Macmillan’s support is needed more than ever before we are also facing a significant drop in our income and the truth is that we can’t continue to be there for people who need us without the support of the public.

“We are doing everything we can to help address the immediate and unique challenges that having cancer during this pandemic brings but we need your support. Your donations are vital to enable us to continue to be there for people living with cancer.”

To donate: www.macmillan.org.uk/donate or call 0300 1000 200.