Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall launches cancer care hub

Photo: Nigel Young

Maggie’s chief executive Laura Lee, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall and Lord Foster

A new Maggie’s Cancer support centre in Manchester was described as a “sanctuary” as it was officially opened by Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall on Tuesday (26 April).

The new centre, known as Maggie’s Manchester at The Robert Parfett Building, is open in the grounds of The Christie Hospital in Withington and will offer free practical, emotional and social support for people affected by cancer in Greater Manchester.

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, who is President of Maggie’s, toured the impressive new building, which was designed by acclaimed architects Foster and Partners, with complementary landscape design by Dan Pearson.

Speaking at the event, the Duchess described the centre as “wonderful”, adding that she “couldn’t imagine a more welcoming or imaginative sanctuary”.

The new centre, the charity’s 19th in the UK and internationally, was developed by Maggie’s to enhance the care and support on offer at The Christie and is the first centre in Greater Manchester.

A second Maggie’s, at the Royal Oldham Hospital, received planning permission earlier this year and construction on site is set to begin soon.

Laura Lee, Maggie’s chief executive, said: “It was an honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall, Lord Foster and all of our guests to the opening of Maggie’s Manchester at The Robert Parfett Building.

“It is wonderful that we will now be able to offer the people of Greater Manchester Maggie’s practical, emotional and social support.

“The team at the centre are now looking forward to welcoming visitors.

“Anyone with cancer, their family or friends are welcome to visit and talk to our professional staff, make the most of our programme of support, or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea.”

Maggie’s offer a full programme of support, including psychological support, benefits advice, nutrition workshops, relaxation and stress management, art therapy, tai chi and yoga.