Up-date on Harbour Cancer Support
As it has now been over 6 months since we had to close the doors to visitors at Harbour Cancer Support I felt we should give an update on the current situation.
Please be reassured that although doors have been locked this does not mean that we have not been working hard – our counsellors and befrienders have been working throughout to support our clients, this has been mainly over the phone but also with some Zoom sessions. We have continued to support all our clients that have wanted support and also a number of new clients over the last six months.
We would far rather be at the centre seeing people face to face, but due to the vulnerability of many of our clients we feel it is far safer to keep working like this for the foreseeable future. We have installed some screens at the centre, so have the option to offer face to face sessions if we feel it is appropriate, but this will be strictly by appointment.
We are very sad that the craft group and art group have had to be placed on pause, but the size and design of our centre means it just is not feasible, even if we tried restricting it to just 6 members at a time. We will get these back up and running as soon as we are able.
We have obviously missed a number of our regular fundraising events and I regretfully also announce that this year the Christmas Fayre, Raffle and Coffee Morning are all cancelled. We will however soon have the 2021 calendars and Christmas cards available to buy – details to come soon.
I believe that concerns have been raised as to if Harbour Cancer Support will reopen, particularly following the sad news that the Haven in Titchfield will be staying closed, but please be reassured that is most definitely the plan. I have been successful in some grant applications and can clearly state that the charity is not in financial difficulties.
We can never sit back and be complacent, we still need to continue to raise funds where we can and bills still need to be paid to make sure the centre is ready once it is safe to return.
I am sorry that I am not able to be more positive as to when that will be, but please be assured we are still working hard to support those that need our help and we will aim to get Harbour Cancer Support back to the busy centre it should be, as soon as it is safe to do so.
If you or anyone you know is affected by cancer and struggling at this time please contact us, by phone 023 9250 1503 or email admin@harbourcancer.org.uk and we can offer support through these difficult times.
Please continue to take care of yourselves and your loved ones.
Best wishes
Melanie