Norfolk: Big C opens new £750k cancer support hub in Norwich

The figure comes as the Big C, which helps people affected by cancer and their families, finally opens the doors of its new £750,000 support centre in Dereham Road, Norwich.

The new centre, housed on the site of a former Blockbuster video store, will provide a range of support services including confidential advice, counselling and therapies.

And in the past year, the number of support sessions run by the charity swelled from 4,904 to 8,782.

Melanie Pascale, director of charitable operations at Big C, said: "Our purpose is to ensure we can meet this demand and we are beyond proud to announce the opening of our Norwich City Cancer Support Centre, which is thanks to a hugely successful public appeal which raised £750,000 to build, furnish and equip the centre.

"This new centre will complement our existing centre in the grounds of the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital."

The new centre opens following a slight delay caused by plumbing issues at the site.

Chris Bushby, the charity's chief executive, said: "This is a culmination of an enormous amount of planning, work and tenacity.

"It is a bright, highly-functioning, welcoming space which will provide respite, comfort, counsel and a space to solve the problems and 'wrap the arms' around those that need us.

"A heartfelt thanks to everyone who has helped bring our vision to life - we are open and ready to support."

Big C chief executive Chris Bushby. Picture: Ella Wilkinson (Image: Archant)

The centre, which has been in the pipeline since 2019, has been welcomed by television presenter Stephen Fry.

He said: "This new state-of-the-art support centre is there for anyone affected by cancer, whether you are a patient, carer or family member."

It will be open from 9am until 4.30pm Monday to Friday.