The group was originally planned as a Alice House Hospice-based programme but a generous offer from Hartlepool Rugby Club has helped shape it into something more informal and accessible.
The idea was conceived by Dr Nathanael Manley and the hospice after recognising that many men were not accessing the emotional support available to them.
Dr Manley said: “Coming to a hospice can be difficult when you have cancer, even the thought of entering a hospice can feel overwhelming. So having a more relaxed and familiar environment away from the hospice felt like a fantastic option.”
He went on: “The idea is to keep things relaxed and easy-going, giving people a distraction while naturally encouraging conversation. Anything too formal can feel intimidating.”
In the wake of its success, Alice House is now encouraging more people to come along and give the group a try.
Dr Manley added: “I’m really happy with how it’s going so far.
“What we’d really like now is for more people to come along. It’s all about finding the right people who would benefit from it. If someone just wants to turn up on the day, that’s absolutely fine and they’re more than welcome.”
The group meets at Hartlepool Rugby Club, Easington Road every Monday, 2pm–4pm and is open to any man affected by cancer, including patients, carers, family members and loved ones.
For more information or to become involved, contact Alice House Hospice on 01429 855555 or enquiries@alicehousehospice.co.uk.
