Following meetings with Cancer Research UK campaigners in Parliament to mark World Cancer Day, James Wild MP visited The Big C Support Centre in King’s Lynn to see firsthand how the charity supports people living with cancer locally and their families.
James was welcomed by Tonia King, Charitable Operations Manager, and met staff and volunteers at the centre to discuss the range of services available in emotional and practical support to complementary therapies, fundraising initiatives and social activities.
During the visit, James discussed key challenges, including making sure people know what support is available and how to access it, the impact of delays in diagnosis and treatment, and the centre’s long-standing support for individuals with some people continuing to attend for over 10 years.
James then joined Tonia at The Big C charity shop in the Vancouver Quarter, which reopened in August last year, where he met staff and volunteers who keep the shop running and heard how proceeds from every item – from kitchen appliances to prom dresses - helps raise vital funds to support The Big C’s services.
Speaking after his visit, James said:
“Cancer touches far too many lives, and centres like The Big C play a vital role in supporting affected people and their families in offering practical help and emotional support when it matters most. I commend the commitment of the volunteers and staff who, it was clear to see, invest so much into keeping these vital services going.
“Timely and quality cancer care has never been more important, and I will continue to push for better diagnosis, treatment and support so that organisations like The Big C can do what they do best in helping people feel supported every step of the way.”
For more information about the Big C in King’s Lynn, you can visit their website here: https://www.big-c.co.uk/centre/kings-lynn-support-centre/
