'First-of-its-kind' Cancer Hub opens in the Hunter

The brand new Hunter Cancer Hub provides a space for people and their families impacted by cancer to access information and services from eight cancer support organisations in one location.

The Hub is predicted to support around 600 people in the first 12 months through on-site appointments, resources and events.

Canteen CEO Peter Orchard said The Hub will be a one stop shop for cancer patients of all ages, their families, friends, and carers.

"One of the things we hear so often is people feeling already incredibly overwhelmed by the cancer itself and responding to that news whether you are the patient or a family member of the patient is huge in itself," he said.

"Then the idea of where to go for help or how to go about doing that is really difficult because you are already struggling, you are already overwhelmed and then you have to figure out where to go next, who to turn to and how to do that.

"This will be a great starting point for individuals, family and friends touched by cancer. If people do not know where to start looking for support, they start here and we will help them access the many services that are available."

Wendy Robinson's daughter was diagnosed with cancer 11 years ago at the age of three.

"For me the idea of a hub is wonderful because it would mean there is one place we can go soon after you hear the shocking news about your child or family member and everything will be there, you won't have to seek it out," she said.

"We don't know what the future is going to hold for our daughter so just knowing that there is a place we will be able to go now to find out what else is available to support us is a huge advantage."

Mr Orchard said the Hub provides a space for more than just information.

"This space can also be a place of connection for other people going through the same challenges. We know the power of peer support and what that does for children and parents."

For Ms Robinson, a space to connect with people in a similar situation is a game changer.

"When your head is hanging down thinking 'I just don't think I can do this anymore' finding another mum or dad to talk with who just looks at you and doesn't even have to say anything but they know how you feel is a major help," she said.

The initiative will see eight local not-for-profits come together under the one roof, including: Canteen, Camp Quality, Hunter Melanoma Foundation, Sleapy's Foundation, Leukemia Foundation, Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation, Cancer Council and Little Wings.

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