A new-build £3.2m centre at Antrim Area Hospital to support cancer patients and their families has been given the go-ahead thanks to a partnership between Macmillan and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.
A business case for the project was approved today (Thursday) by the Board of the Northern Trust. Subject to funding and partnership agreement, the next stage of the project is to seek planning approval with work on site anticipated to start in autumn 2025.
The centre is expected to be operational by the end of 2026.
Chair of the Northern Trust Board, Anne O’Reilly, said:
“Our Trust is currently the only HSC Trust in the region without a dedicated cancer support centre at its main acute hospital site.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Macmillan on this project to bring this new information and support centre to Antrim Area Hospital. It will improve services for cancer patients, their families and carers, and create equity of provision for our local population in the Northern Trust.”
The centre is being funded by Macmillan, with a contribution towards the project being made by the Northern Trust.
The stand-alone, two-storey centre will be built between Fern House and Maple House within the Antrim hospital grounds. It will have public-facing areas including a lounge and information hub; two therapy rooms; two quiet rooms; a family room, and group room. There will also be workspace for healthcare staff.
Macmillan spokesperson Gordon McLean said:
“As the number of people with cancer grows, it’s important that everyone has access to services that meet their individual needs. Working in partnership with the Northern Trust, we can improve cancer care together and ensure that more people get the support they need.”
Matt Mallon, Interim Cancer Services Manager with the Northern Trust, added:
“Having a dedicated centre for our community will vastly improve how we are able to support those affected by cancer. It will allow people to access support and information in a bespoke, welcoming environment away from our very busy clinical area.”
Over the last six years, Macmillan’s information and support service has supported more than 9,000 people living with cancer, their families and carers. Without a dedicated space for events and in-person activities, much of this support is currently offered off-site or online.
The centre will also improve access to cancer support services for young people who have received a cancer diagnosis themselves, or who are supporting a family member.