A cancer charity is investing £240,000 to develop information areas and drop-in services at four libraries in Fife over the coming months.
Macmillan Cancer Support has joined forces with Fife Cultural Trust (ONFife) to develop much needed support services for people with cancer, their families and carers.
The services will offer emotional and practical advice and will also provide access to information materials on various types of cancer and its treatment, or simply a listening ear.
As well as specialist cancer information and emotional support, the service can refer people onto other services, such as benefits advice.
The first two services will open in Lochgelly and Leven later this year, with two others being rolled out – one in Glenrothes and another at a location to be confirmed – next year.
Janice Preston, Macmillan’s head of services in Scotland, said: “A cancer diagnosis brings with it all kinds of questions and uncertainty for patients, their families and friends.
Being able to access information and emotional support at this stressful time is vital and we know from the success of similar services in libraries that people appreciate local easily accessible services.
“Macmillan is almost entirely funded by donations so we couldn’t provide this much-needed service to the increasing number of people with cancer without the people in Fife who donate so generously.”
June Souter, service development manager at ON Fife libraries, said: “ONFife Libraries are delighted to be helping Macmillan to support people affected by cancer within their local community.
“We will be asking Fifers to volunteer with us as the most valuable thing you can offer people affected by cancer is your time.”
