Norfolk cancer centre offers free scooters and wheelchairs

The Caring Friends for Cancer support hub in Dereham has announced that new funding has allowed them to buy an array of mobility support equipment, from scooters to wheelchairs, which people affected by the disease can rent out free of charge.

It is thanks to a grant from The Hedley Foundation, which has seen the Norwich Street hub buy in three additional scooters and wheelchairs for adults and children.

Dereham cancer charity, Caring Friends for Cancer Mid Norfolk, receives new mobility equipment for users. Pictured is manager Suzanne Chapman (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Suzanne Chapman, manager for Caring Friends for Cancer in Dereham, said: “As we are growing, we are finding more people are needing help in different ways.

“The equipment we have purchased will go towards making life easier for those whose lives and health have been affected by cancer.

“People have been popping in the office, and saying ‘I didn’t know you did this’, so I want everyone to know they are welcome to come in and speak to us about taking some equipment on a loan free of charge - we are just here to help.”

Dereham cancer charity, Caring Friends for Cancer Mid Norfolk, receives new mobility equipment for users. Pictured is manager Suzanne Chapman (Image: Sonya Duncan)

The centre is open four days a week and they are inviting anyone to come along and speak to them about renting the equipment - as three scooters are already out on long-term loans.

The charity group was founded in 2014 and offers a range of services for people, including helping to reduce isolation.

It is not just the mobility support the centre offers, there is an array of services to help those living with cancer - with complementary therapy and counsellor sessions and every Friday morning the town’s Weatherspoon hosts a social event for the group.

There are also bingo nights, evening outings and events.

In the future, Mrs Chapman said they are planning to provide wig and bra fitting services for users.