VOLUNTEERS at a Worcester hospital can lend an ear to people diagnosed with cancer and their families so no-one has to suffer alone or in silence.

They are available at Worcestershire Royal Hospital as part of the Macmillan Cancer Talk Week which runs from Monday to Sunday.

This year the focus is on families and Macmillan staff and volunteers will be offering free, confidential advice and support, both practical and emotional, for patients and their partners, children, colleagues and carers.

Macmillan’s Kay Tandy said: “Friends and relatives don’t always realise we are here for them too. It is so important that everyone affected by cancer has the opportunity to speak openly about what they’re going through to ensure that they get the right support they need.

“People often feel they have to deal with their worries alone when supporting their loved ones through cancer diagnosis and treatment. We reassure friends and relatives that a listening ear and our support are available to everyone, not just patients.”

Worcestershire’s Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service also works with Relate which offers free confidential counselling for people affected by cancer.

Relate’s Jude Wood said: “Our service is working with Macmillan to offer further counselling to anyone who has been affected by cancer.

“We offer specialist counselling for couples, families, individuals and young people.”

There is a Macmillan support centre on the ground floor of Worcestershire Royal Hospital. Call 01905 733837 or drop-in for more information and support. For more information about Relate speak to a Macmillan adviser at the centre or call 01905 28051.