VOLUNTEERS with a listening ear are being sought for a community-based initiative that offers vital support for people living with cancer.

Cultural charity OnFife is teaming up with Macmillan Cancer Support so that people can access information and advice by popping into their local libraries.

Volunteer-led drop-in sessions already take place two hours a week at a number of libraries across Fife.

With feedback overwhelmingly positive so far, OnFife’s Macmillan Project Officer Cathy Grieve is looking to launch a similar service at Duloch in Dunfermline in May.

The drop-in service offered at OnFife venues complements pop-up sessions that are held for five hours each month at Queen Margaret and Victoria hospitals.

Dunfermline Press: The Macmillan drop-in area at Duloch Library. The Macmillan drop-in area at Duloch Library. (Image: OnFife)

Providing an extensive support network is crucial, says former NHS worker Cathy: “COVID has dulled many people’s desire to travel, so it’s vital they can access information and emotional support close to home.”

Volunteers do not need to have any knowledge of cancer or have a healthcare background. Full training and support for all volunteers will be provided by Macmillan and OnFife.

Volunteers are asked to give two hours of their time each week, supporting not just people with cancer, but their families, friends and carers.

OnFife’s drop-in scheme was originally launched in January 2020 – six weeks before the first lockdown, which led to the initiative being put on hold until December last year.

Demand for the service is as great as ever, according to Cathy, who added: “One in two people will be affected by cancer in their lifetime. That can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness – so we’re here to ensure they can access high quality support in a welcoming setting.

Dunfermline Press: The Macmillan drop-in area at Duloch Library features a mural of Pittencrieff Park.The Macmillan drop-in area at Duloch Library features a mural of Pittencrieff Park. (Image: Newsquest)

“If anyone feels they could offer an empathetic ear and signpost people to relevant services in our friendly, relaxing library spaces, then we’d love to hear from them.”

For more information or to request an application form, contact Macmillan Volunteer Coordinator Heather Korabiowska on 07754 800072 or email macmillan@onfife.com.