Teamwork is key for support centre

HELPING hands . . . (from left) therapist Karen Sykes, volunteer Brian Sandiford, patient Julia Clegg, volunteer Shirley Ryder and Angela Godfrey, counsellor and therapist

Sterling work by Oldham Cancer Support Centre in aiding a teacher who had breast cancer has earned it a Pride in Oldham nomination.

Trainee teacher Martin Godfrey was saddened to see his colleague laid low by the illness.
But having spent time with the Oldham Cancer Support Centre, a more positive attitude resulted.

Now in remission from the illness, the colleague is now working as one of the centre’s many volunteers.

The Oldham Cancer Support Centre is based in Failsworth and works in partnership with Oldham Primary Care Trust to offer help and support to patients affected by cancer, their carers and family members. At the centre, patients are offered information, self help and support groups. There is benefits advice, complementary therapies, counselling and an opportunity to talk in a relaxed atmosphere.

Centre manager Chris Hoyle said: “Oldham Cancer Support Centre strives to be the recognised provider of high quality emotional and supportive care for people in Oldham living with cancer and also for families and carers.

“Individuals are able to talk to members of staff in confidence about any of the above services.

“All our staff, there are more than 30 of them, are volunteers, ranging from the centre manager, therapists, counsellors welcomers and drivers — without whom the centre would not function.

“We work as a team to provide a quality service for the centre and its service users.

“Each volunteer receives on-going training and is fully committed to their work.

“Anyone living with cancer, who is over 18 years of age can access the service.”




To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

Your name

Your contact number

Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk, marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008






Pride in Oldham is supported by:

Innovative Technology

J W Lees Brewery

Molnlycke Health Care

Northern Counties Housing Association

Oldham Council

University Centre Oldham

Warburtons