A partnership of Brighton and Hove based voluntary organisations, led by the Trust for Developing Communities has launched Act on Cancer Together. The new project seeks to save lives by supporting people in the city to get diagnosed for cancer as early as possible.
Act on Cancer Together is, funded by Brighton & Hove City Council and Sussex NHS Commissioners. It brings together the community expertise of local charities the Trust for Developing Communities and the Hangleton & Knoll Project with the experience and knowledge of Macmillan Cancer Support. The three project partners will work alongside community volunteers to raise awareness of the early signs and symptoms of cancer, increase the crucial uptake of screening offers, and improve access to support if someone receives a diagnosis.
Irene Ashworth was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in February 2020 and is now volunteering with the Trust for Developing Communities. She said:
“The best protection is early detection. I was prompted to check my breasts by my nurse at a routine smear test and I found a distinct lump straight away. Thinking back, I’d been feeling some unusual sensations in my breast, but thought no more about it. Those few words by a friendly, encouraging nurse saved my life. I’m passionate about using my experience in a positive way and helping others increase their body awareness and reduce their fears. We all need the inner strength to take those first steps”.
The project will work with volunteers like Irene who have survived cancer from all the city’s communities, offering engaging, awareness workshops and conversations in workplaces and community settings, and practical help and support for people who need to access screening and post diagnosis support.
If you would like to get involved as a volunteer, have any questions about screening or would be interested in booking a workshop then please contact the Trust for Developing Communities on info@trustdevcom.org.uk or 01273 234769.