The Hunter Cancer Hub (The Hub) has officially opened its doors. The first-of-its-kind hub is a space for families and individuals impacted by cancer to access information and services from various cancer support organisations in one location.
Eight cancer charities have come together to deliver this ground-breaking co-working space which provides integrated support for patients and their families and was made possible by a $90,000 grant from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.
Peter Orchard, CEO of Canteen and founding partner, said The Hub is a one stop shop for cancer patients of all ages, their families, friends, and carers.
“The Hub will make what is a challenging time a little easier by having access and connection to Newcastle based cancer services under one roof,” said Peter.
“Canteen is excited to be collaborating with our partner organisations to enhance the services we offer the Hunter community.
“Dealing with your own or a loved one’s cancer diagnosis can be one of the most devastating times in a person’s life. Cancer presents an overwhelming set of challenges, from accommodation, financial hardship to mental health.
“We believe that finding the support to get through this difficult time should be simple and easy, and that’s where The Hunter Cancer Hub comes in.
“This will be a great starting point for individuals, family and friends touched by cancer. If people do not know where to start looking for support, they start with us, and we will help them access the many services that are available.”
Deborah Thomas, Camp Quality CEO, said cancer impacts every member of the family and that a range of support is needed at every stage of the experience.
“Families often tell us how overwhelming it is navigating different services, so we are very proud to be part of The Hunter Cancer Hub, a collaborative space that makes life easier for families dealing with cancer,” said Deborah.
Starting in April, The Hunter Cancer Hub will be offering a monthly open day for people impacted by cancer and their families or support people, with all the partnering cancer services to best support the Hunter community.
Jennifer Leslie, Chair of the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, said the Hub set to support around 600 people in the first 12 months through on-site appointments, resources and events.
“We’re confident it will make a big difference to a lot of local people,” said Jennifer.
“At its simplest, this amazing Hub aims to relieve some of the stress families and individuals experience by providing concurrent appointments and a supportive environment for connecting with health and support services, and other families experiencing similar challenges.”
Claudia Tolhurst, Executive Officer of the Hunter Melanoma Foundation said “HMF have been supporting melanoma patients in the region for 30+ years. We are excited to be a part of the Cancer Hub because we know that together, we are stronger, and can extend and strengthen our support in the local community through the services of the other organisations involved.”
The initiative will see eight local not-for-profits come together under the one roof, including: Canteen, Camp Quality, Hunter Melanoma Foundation, Sleapy’s Foundation, Leukemia Foundation, Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation, Cancer Council and Little Wings.
To find out more about the Hunter Cancer Hub visit: www.huntercancerhub.org.au
The Hunter Cancer Hub Location: 10D Bradford Close, Kotara