A charity has expanded its services to offer free online cancer support to Dorchester.

Wessex Cancer Support (WCS) is a charity which works to provide free wellbeing support to anyone affected by cancer in Dorset, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight.

The charity currently runs four cancer support centres in Bournemouth, Chandler’s Ford, Newport (Isle of Wight) and Hythe.

After recognising the lack of support available within the Dorchester area, an online support service was developed to help those who would struggle to travel to an in-person support centre.

Katie Davies, WSC’s project manager, said: “Having an online support package enables those who are unable to visit or would prefer to access our services from the comfort of their home to get the support they need.

"We’re striving to replicate online what we offer in our support centres, including counselling, support groups and therapies.

“You’ll have the opportunity to chat to our Wellbeing Coordinator and identify the support that suits you best.

"Then, you’ll be able to book services at a time convenient for you. We know that taking the first steps to accessing support can feel a bit daunting, but we’re only a few clicks away and promise all the compassion and understanding you’d find in our support centres.”   

Bournemouth-based artist, Nat, who was diagnosed with thyroid cancer aged 45, added: "Cancer literally took my life and shook it like a snow globe.

“Thyroid cancer made conversations hard and exhausting and I felt so isolated. I avoided going out, so the online sound therapy, meditation and friendships were a lifeline." 

The new online services are designed for anyone affected by cancer, whether it is someone diagnosed with the disease, supporting someone with cancer or bereaved.  

More information can be found on Wessex Cancer Support website: https://www.wessexcancer.org.uk/free-online-support/