Helen Rollason Cancer Charity reopens support centres and charity shops after second lockdown

The Helen Rollason Cancer Charity (HRCC) has reopened three support centres and its network of charity shops – including one in Sawbridgeworth – following the end of the second lockdown.

The charity previously had a support centre at Herts & Essex Hospital in Bishop's Stortford. People with cancer, as well as their families, had access to free services such as aromatherapy, reflexology and counselling.

But in June 2019 it was asked to move out. HRCC now supports Stortford cancer patients from a new West Essex centre at Harlow's LeisureZone.

This hub – along with the Mid Essex and North Essex support centres in Hatfield Peverel and Colchester respectively – will be open for reflexology until they close for Christmas on December 18.

Visitors will be asked to sanitise their hands when they arrive and leave, wear a face covering and follow social distancing guidance.

HRCC chief executive Kate Alden said: "We are absolutely delighted that we are now in a position to safely reopen some of our support centres following our second enforced closure.

"Our therapists will be following the latest Government guidance to keep everyone safe, including wearing PPE where necessary, maintaining social distancing and regularly sanitising and washing their hands.

"We have also introduced enhanced cleaning at our support centres so that anyone who needs our support can be reassured that it is safe to visit us."

The Covid-19 crisis has forced HRCC to cancel fundraising events, which has led to a loss of revenue.

"We are appealing for the public’s support to help us through this difficult time by donating to us or supporting us in other ways so that we can continue enabling quality of life while living with cancer," Kate said. "Please help us support our clients, both now during this time of unrest and in the months and years to come."

To make a donation, call 01245 380719 or visit the HRCC JustGiving page.