THE WOKINGHAM Cancer Support Network have been awarded a generous grant of £10,000 from the National Lottery.

The newly-established project helps people affected by Cancer in the Wokingham borough, including carers and family members.

Vickie Randall, project lead, said: "Meeting other people with similar experiences can be invaluable.

"We have developed a holistic support network that helps people by offering direct peer-to-peer support with our volunteer Cancer Champions, as well as our monthly meet-ups.

"We have a safe space online for interaction and we promote news and events through our social media. We want the network to become known as a support hub for those that need us when they are feeling vulnerable or alone."

The Cancer Support Network has been established as a community project by Involve, an infrastructure charity delivering a range of services and projects throughout Bracknell Forest and Wokingham to support the voluntary, community and faith sectors.

The aim of the project is to support people in a range of ways, including direct peer-to-peer voluntary support, monthly group meet-ups, an online chat facility through Facebook and an information/signposting hub.

People affected by cancer, including carers, meet on the third Thursday of the month at Wokingham library between 2-4pm.

There is a different topic each month and the meeting provides an opportunity to come together in an informal, friendly and safe setting to share experiences and enjoy a relaxing afternoon - with cake included.

Wendy, who used the service, said: "Thank you so much for arranging such an enjoyable afternoon.

"I'm sure others found it equally interesting.

"Candles, chats, giraffes, tea and nibbles were all memorable!

"As a Cancer support meeting, it was good to see how such a workshop enabled people to open up, yet without the formality of a usual meeting.”

The funding came from The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes and is the largest community funder in the UK.

The funding award will mean that the support network can continue its valuable work for another year.

For more information about the Wokingham Cancer Support Network, contact Vickie Randall - T: 01344 304404 or E: Vickie.Randall@involve.community.