Library post opens new chapter for cancer help

  • Text size
  • Send this article to a friend
  • Print this article

Library post opens new chapter for cancer help

A support point for those affected by cancer has opened in a Glasgow library.

The Macmillan Cancer Support service was launched by cancer researcher and ex-Chief Medical Officer of Scotland Sir Kenneth Calman in Hillhead Library.

As revealed in last Friday's Evening Times, the charity plans to roll out the service to all 33 libraries in the city.

The move was prompted by the success of the information points, which have been set up in Mitchell Library, Pollok, Dennistoun, Easterhouse and Langside.

More than 1000 people have been given advice since the partnership between between Macmillan and Glasgow Life saw the cancer services set up six months ago.

Craig Menzies, service manager at the charity, said his team aimed to support cancer sufferers "emotionally, practically and financially".

He said: "The area in Hillhead is in quite a private and quiet corner.

"I think because the service is in the community it makes people realise it's not clinical and it's quite an informal drop-in service.

"When people go to the doctor or for a hospit- al appointment it can be stressful and they might not ask the questions they need answers for.

"At the library they can get a cup of tea, a biscuit and talk about what's bothering them.

"Our advisers can then offer advice and signpost them on to different services, maybe about benefits or if they want counselling.

"We are trying to take the holistic route."

Cancer patients – as well as people who have recovered from the illness – and their families can drop into the Macmillan points for services, including benefits advice, a vocational rehabilitation project or a nurse-run support line.

Some Cancer Support Scotland services, including counselling and complementary therapies, can be accessed.

Organisers hope the service – the first of its kind in the UK – will be in every library by the end of next year.

In smaller libraries there will be an information stand with trained staff.

Craig added: "It is such a great project.

"Everyone is affected by cancer and it gives people a chance to talk to someone outwith the situation who can help people think clearly."

Councillor Archie Graham said: "I am pleased to see the launch of the service and to be able to announce that information and support is available across the city."

Contextual targeting label: 
Health

Commenting & Moderation

We moderate all comments on Evening Times on either a pre-moderated or post-moderated basis. If you're a relatively new user then your comments will be reviewed before publication and if we know you well then your comments will be subject to moderation only if other users or the moderators believe you've broken the rules, which are available here.

Moderation is undertaken full-time 9am-6pm on weekdays, and on a part-time basis outwith those hours. Please be patient if your posts are not approved instantly.