Help protect your local cancer charity

FORCE Cancer Charity is enlisting the help of its supporters and the people who have used the services it provides to lobby for a share of the money Chancellor Rishi Sunak has pledged to charities.

The Government has promised £370 million for small and medium sized organisations at the heart of local communities which are making a big difference during the COVID-19 outbreak.

With its support centres in Exeter, Okehampton, Tiverton and Honiton temporarily closed, FORCE has redesigned its services to offer ongoing help and advice cancer patients and their families.

Information, including benefits advice, and counselling appointments are happening via phone and video calls.

Cancer patients are still receiving chemotherapy in Okehampton and Honiton from nurses paid for by FORCE.

To ensure that FORCE survives beyond the Coronavirus pandemic, chief executive Meriel Fishwick has called on the communities that the charity serves for their support.

She said: “We are thankful for the Government’s announcement of support for charities, particularly those like FORCE who are still providing services during the Coronavirus pandemic.

“However, we will have to put a really strong case to try to get a share of these funds and that’s where you can help.

“Quite simply we are asking people to write a paragraph on why Devon and its communities need FORCE Cancer Charity.   

“We must send the decision-makers a clear message about just how important FORCE is to so many people.

“Help us fight for our survival by joining this campaign.

“Please encourage everyone you can to get involved and give us the people-power we need to fight for FORCE. 

“You can email us at connect@forcecancercharity.co.uk or contact us via Facebook or other social media channels.

“Send your messages, spread the word and help save FORCE.

“THANK YOU.”

If you or someone you know is affected by cancer and needs support, call:

01392 406151 for cancer support and information, including benefits advice

01392 406168/406169 for psychological and emotional support