A collaboration between two charities has been strengthened to ensure more people suffering the effects of head and neck cancer get vital support.
The Get A-Head Charitable Trust has approved a £37,000 grant to the Swallows Head and Neck Cancer Charity to help it launch more local support groups across the UK.
The grant will fund the work of Swallows’ dedicated Support Group Co-ordinator Fiona Watson in helping establish new groups, supporting and training volunteers and co-ordinating guest speakers.
It follows the awarding of £24,000 in grants to Swallows last year by Get A-Head as the charities developed a close working partnership to expand national support, education, and advocacy for those affected by head and neck cancers.
Get A-Head director Danni Heath said: “We are delighted to strengthen our important partnership with Swallows to ensure that all patients and carers affected by head and neck cancer get the treatment and support they need.
“The support groups provided by Swallows deliver immeasurable benefits to patients and their carers. They play a vital role in guiding patients through both the physical and emotional challenges of diagnosis and treatment.
“Our grant will help the expansion of these groups and ensure people have the support they need as they face some of the hardest times in their lives.”
Chris Curtis, Founder and CEO of The Swallows, said: “We are incredibly grateful for this support from Get A-Head. Its belief in our mission and the funding they’ve provided has already helped us reach more patients and raise awareness. Formalising this partnership means we can now go even further, together.
“Head and neck cancer patients face some of the most complex challenges of any cancer group and the need for trusted, peer-led support is immense.
“Fiona’s work ensures that these services are delivered with professionalism, compassion and local relevance. She has built relationships with NHS trusts, fostered leadership among volunteers, and created a system of accountability and consistency that enhances our national offer.
“By supporting this core role, the Get A-Head Charitable Trust is directly improving the lives of hundreds of patients and caregivers each year.”
Key aims of the ongoing collaboration between the charities include:
The Swallows and Get A-Head will also continue to work together on key national events.
