In today’s post we hear about a well spent Summer’s day in Northumberland….
On Wednesday 30th August, Age UK Northumberland enjoyed a sunny day in the Sanderson Arcade in Morpeth promoting their Macmillan funded cancer advocacy project.
The Sanderson Arcade is a smart shopping centre in the heart of a beautiful market town in Northumberland. With a population of over 16,000 Morpeth is particularly busy on a Wednesday which is a market day with people visiting from all over the county.
From the moment the gazebo was erected until the end of the day visitors to the stand were frequent. Lunch time was particularly busy. With a key position next to the entrance to Marks and Spencer in the middle of the thoroughfare there really was no way to avoid our presence!
Our new leaflet explaining the project was handed out to passers by, queries about our services were answered and our pens, key rings and sweets were eagerly received! One of our volunteers, an ex-cancer radiologist put up a display about radiotherapy which was particularly well received with a number of people asking questions about the process.
This was a wonderful opportunity to explain to people how Age UK Northumberland’s Cancer, Older People and Advocacy Project works and what being an advocate entails. Knowing that someone can accompany you to appointments or can help you identify benefits and allowances you may be entitled to was of particular interest to those who had or knew of someone with a cancer diagnosis.
The success of the stand was made possible by the stalwart support of our volunteers who all stayed well beyond their allocated slots. Their enthusiasm and willingness to share their knowledge and passion for the project was clearly visible. All in all, a great way to spend a summer’s day!
Karen Renner
Volunteer Coordinator – AGE UK Northumberland Cancer Advocacy Project
Older People Living with Cancer 