FORCE Cancer Charity, based in Exeter, is a beacon of support for many, extending free assistance and information to those affected by cancer, both at their Centre and in local community hospitals.
The charity’s comprehensive range of services includes counselling, group sessions, complementary therapies, benefits advice, specialist physiotherapy, exercise guidance and various other health and well-being support. These resources are available to cancer patients and their families, ensuring a holistic approach to their well-being.
One primary focus is providing Level 3 counselling support for individuals and families grappling with a cancer diagnosis. We were informed that over the past three years, the demand for this vital assistance has grown significantly, paralleled by an increase in the complexity of the issues faced by patients, carers, and partners. Recognising this evolving need, FORCE sought financial support for a pilot project aimed at tailoring assistance to those facing the most challenging situations.
Focus Foundation were able to provide the charity with a grant to help them establish a clinical psychology service, supporting both oncology and haematology patients at FORCE and the RDUH Trust and we’ve been told that the impact of this initiative has been transformative, enhancing the charity’s ability to address the intricate emotional needs of those facing cancer diagnoses.
With psychologist sessions costing £120 a time, the Foundations grant of £6,000 is enabling FORCE to support up to 500 patients in a year.
A patient who’s already received the service commented: “I have had great benefits from the sessions so far and actually now feel that they are, for me, an essential part of coming to terms with the whole process.”
If you would like to know more about this incredible charity, visit: www.forcecancercharity.co.uk