Work has officially started on the new Ayrshire Cancer Support centre for children and young people, after a groundbreaking ceremony last Friday.
MSP Neil Gray, cabinet secretary for NHS recovery, health and social care, was joined by civic dignitaries and council and NHS leaders for the ceremony at the site of the new premises in Prestwick Road, Ayr.
The building will be transformed into the region’s only dedicated complete support facility for children and young people affected by cancer in Ayrshire.
Sandra McCall, chief executive officer of Ayrshire Cancer Support, said the new facility was only made possible thanks to the generosity of several founding sponsors, grant funders, corporate partners and the support of the local community in their fundraising efforts, for which the charity is extremely grateful.
The Ayr centre will add to the charity’s existing facilities at their Kilmarnock centre and head office in Dundonald Road.
It will also fill the gap in provision for free specialist counselling or therapeutic services for children and young people in the area.
The new centre will include a large drop-in centre, counselling rooms, therapy rooms and spaces for children and young people.
Professor Ian Welsh OBE, chair of Ayrshire Cancer Support, said: “This project is a significant milestone in the history of the organisation.
"Once complete, the Ayr centre will allow us to increase our support options, offering bespoke spaces for children, young people, and adults.
"Sadly, there are few people whose lives are unaffected by cancer, and this centre will fill a gap for a much-needed service.”
MSP Mr Gray said: “Cancer is a priority for this government and that is why we published our 10-year cancer strategy and three year action plan last year.
"It is wonderful to have the opportunity to see the plans for this centre and the fantastic work of Ayrshire Cancer Support in helping those affected by cancer.”
Claire Burden, chief executive of NHS Ayrshire & Arran, added: “Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be devastating and having access to local specialist support, clinical and non-clinical is invaluable.
"This centre will provide much needed support and therapies for children, young people and adults, as well as their families and carers.”
For more information on Ayrshire Cancer Support’s new centre visit home4cancer.org.
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