New cancer support group to launch just for men

Communications TeamNews, Queen's Centre

A new cancer support group aimed specifically at men across the Humber region will launch next week.

The Living With and Beyond Cancer Team based at the Queen’s Centre, Castle Hill Hospital, is launching the group, ‘Alright Lads!’ for men who have received cancer treatment or a diagnosis.

The idea for a men only support group came from one of the team’s patients, Steve, who said he found it difficult to discuss his thoughts and feelings. He had previously looked for a men only support group without success, so approached the Living With and Beyond Cancer Team with a request to help set a group up.

Claire Walker, Macmillan Associate Practitioner for the Living With and Beyond Cancer Team says:

“Men can be incredibly shy or reluctant when it comes to asking for help, whether that’s going to see the doctor in the first place or talking about their feelings and asking for help after a cancer diagnosis.

“The idea for the group came from one of our patients, Steve, who felt a men only support group might make men more likely to open up and seek out the support they need in a more comfortable or ‘safe’ environment.

“This idea has certainly proved popular when we’ve tested it out with some of our existing patients. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be working with Steve to plan and deliver activities for men based on what they want to hear and do, such as physical activity and information sessions. It’s a great way to get men talking and feeling comfortable about asking for help, at the same time as making new friends.”

The Living With and Beyond Cancer Team provides a whole host of advice, support and activities for people living across our region who have a cancer diagnosis or who have completed treatment. These include gardening, singing and days out, plus advice on returning to work, benefits, relationships and more.

The first meeting of the ‘Alright Lads!’ men only group will take place from 10am to 12 noon on Friday 11th October at the Garden Village Community Centre, Elm Avenue, Hull. The group is aimed specifically at men living with cancer now or who have completed cancer treatment. Subsequent 2019 meeting dates are Friday 1st November and Friday 6th December.

For more information, contact the Living With and Beyond Cancer Team on 01482 461091.