Norfolk and Waveney cancer charity, Big C, has launched a range of services designed to support those affected by cancer during the Coronavirus outbreak.
The charity will be providing support packs for local people affected by cancer in isolation due to Coronavirus. They will include home comfort items along with advice and signposting to Big C’s free telephone helpline and online Virtual Centre.
Director of Charitable Operations at Big C, Dr Melanie Pascale, said, “Those in our community affected by cancer are already facing challenging circumstances and are now experiencing added worry and anxiety due to the Coronavirus outbreak. In addition, some people with specific cancers who are considered to be extremely vulnerable are now being asked to take extra shielding measures. We want to do everything we can to help them at this time. Big C has been providing support in Norfolk for the past 40 years and we will continue to do so.”
Alongside the Support and Wellbeing packs, starting from Tuesday 24th March, Big C is launching a ‘live chat’ facility via their website, where local people affected by cancer will be able to access support from 11am to 3pm Monday to Friday.
Telephone counselling sessions and telephone appointments in partnership with the Citizens Advice Bureau will also be available. The Big C Virtual Centre will offer ‘Keep Moving’ physical activity and mental wellbeing videos, wellbeing and ‘checking in’ videos, interactive ‘Ask the Nurse’ support and video link to Big C support team members. An emergency delivery service is also available for those most in need to help with small amounts of shopping or delivering prescriptions.
Dr Melanie Pascale added, “I would like to thank our wonderful staff for their amazing efforts as a team to deliver this support and continue the care they are so passionate about.”
Anyone wishing to access support can call the Big C Support Team on 0800 092 7640. The line is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. All calls are free of charge.