A DEDICATED volunteer supporting cancer patients and their families at Redditch's Alex Hospital has called on others to lend a hand to help people when they need it the most.

When she retired four years ago Sylvia Green decided to volunteer at the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre at the Alex.

Mrs Green said she had been keen to get involved in the community in some way and was spurred into joining Macmillan following the experiences of members of her close family.

“People often say it is easier to talk to someone they don’t know as they feel reluctant to burden their loved ones,” she said.

“It’s a good feeling to be able to help people to start to talk about their worries and concerns.”

Macmillan runs information and support centres at all three major hospitals in Worcestershire, where people affected by cancer can get information about services run by the charity.

Mrs Green said being able to support patients throughout their treatments was “an enormous privilege”

“When I go home after my morning shift sometimes I feel emotionally drained,” she said.

“It can be challenging, but it feels good to think I have helped someone.

“I have supported one lady with a blood cancer for three years.

“She regularly comes in on my shift for a chat and it has been wonderful to see her health improve.

“When we first met she was struggling physically, we helped her sort out her finances and get her some help with her housework and Macmillan local community scheme enabled her to have some gardening done which had been a worry to her.

“I was so delighted that she was able to visit her son at the seaside just before Christmas – the first time she has been well enough since her diagnosis.”

Mrs Green said she would recommend Macmillan as the ideal charity for anyone interested in giving some of their time to the community.

“You will find a warm welcome and support with training while you find your feet,” she said.

For information on volunteering with Macmillan, call 01905 733837 or email kay.tandy@worcsacute.nhs.uk.