Popular cancer support service available in more Renfrewshire libraries

Mar 2 2012 by Alison Rennie, Paisley Daily Express

CANCER patients and their families are being urged to book a spot at the library – to pick up vital advice.

Living Well @ The Library with Macmillan Cancer Support has run a successful drop-in centre at Renfrew Library since 2005.

Now, the popular service is being expanded to Ferguslie Park Library, in Paisley, and Bridgewater Library, in Erskine.

Each offers a comprehensive range of information on all aspects of living with cancer.

People will also be given the time they need to talk about their experiences in a comfortable and relaxed environment.

As well as providing a free and confidential support service, complementary therapies can also be accessed at the service, while specialist benefits and financial advisers from the Advice Works team are also on hand to deal with any money worries.

Susanne Gray, Macmillan nurse and project manager, 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 the Renfrew drop-in that people appreciate local easily accessible services.”

Councillor Eileen McCartin, Renfrewshire Council’s libraries spokeswoman, officially opened the service at the Ferguslie Park Library in the Tannahill Centre.

She said: “Living Well @ The Library with Macmillan Cancer Support is an excellent example of a continuing partnership between agencies which brings services together for the benefit of the community and to improve the well-being of individuals.

“The newly expanded service demonstrates that public libraries can be key partners for the health and social care sector, and highlights the important contribution that local services are making to improving the health and well-being of the communities they serve.”

Elspeth Atkinson, Macmillan’s director for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, added: “Cancer will be the toughest fight many people will face and it is important that those affected by cancer in Renfrewshire have access to the support they need. We’ve seen the difference that the Renfrew Library project has already made to people in the area and are delighted to now be able to help expand this vital service.”

To use the service, go along to Renfrew Library on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1pm to 4pm, Bridgewater Library on Mondays from 11am to 2pm or Ferguslie Park Library, Tannahill Centre, on Wednesdays from 11am to 2pm. No appointments are necessary.