A ground-breaking new cancer support facility has officially opened its doors in Kotara providing information and services for families and individuals impacted by cancer.
Eight cancer organisations and charities collaborated to deliver the integrated Hunter Cancer Hub facility, made possible by a $90,000 grant from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.
The organisations include Canteen Australia, Camp Quality, Hunter Melanoma Foundation, Sleapy’s Foundation, Leukemia Foundation, Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation, Cancer Council and Little Wings.
Canteen Australia CEO and founding partner, Peter Orchard, said the hub was a one-stop-shop for cancer patients of all ages as well as their families, friends and carers.
“The Hunter Cancer Hub will make what is a challenging time a little easier by having access and connection to Newcastle based cancer services under one roof,” Orchard said.
“Dealing with your own or a loved one’s cancer diagnosis can be one of the most devastating times in a person’s life, and cancer presents an overwhelming set of challenges from accommodation and financial hardship to mental health.”
Orchard said the Hunter Cancer Hub provided simple and accessible support to patients going through an already difficult time.
“This will be a great starting point for individuals, family and friends touched by cancer,” Orchard said.
“If people do not know where to start looking for support, they start with us, and we will help them access the many services that are available.”
Camp Quality CEO, Deborah Thomas, said cancer impacted every family member and that a range of support was needed at every stage of the experience.
“Families often tell us how overwhelming it is navigating different services, so we are very proud to be part of the Hunter Cancer Hub, a collaborative space that makes life easier for families dealing with cancer,” Thomas said.
Starting in April, the hub will offer a monthly open day for people, families or carers impacted by cancer.
Chair of the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, Jennifer Leslie, said the hub was set to support around 600 people in the first 12 months through on-site appointments, resources and events.
“We’re confident it will make a big difference to a lot of local people,” Leslie said.
“At its simplest, this amazing hub aims to relieve some of the stress families and individuals experience by providing concurrent appointments and a supportive environment.”
More information on the Hunter Cancer Hub can be found on its website.
Maia O’Connor