Cancer charity’s homeless fear

Reporter: Andrew Rudkin
Date published: 21 September 2012


Volunteers at Oldham Cancer Support Centre are pinning hopes on getting help to find new premises after a rent hike.

Chairman Beryl Vale said these are “desperate times” for the service, which has supported cancer victims, carers and relatives for the past four years from a base at Failsworth Primary Care Resource Centre.

The charity claims it would have to pay £22,400 a year to stay — way beyond its means.

Secretary Pam Williams said: “Rent was free for the first two years, which was amazing, but last year the bill was £18,000 and we have been struggling to pay it.

“We receive no funding whatsoever from anyone — it’s all through our own fund-raising. We really can only just afford to pay the counsellors and therapists.

“Paying that amount of money to stay here is not possible.”

Bosses plead for anyone who can provide a home in Failsworth or Oldham that can offer rooms for treatment, counselling and an office to get in touch.

No offer means the charity will have to leave within 12 months.

Offers can be made to 0161-906 2940.






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