You don’t have to face cancer alone

Finding the right cancer support for veterans can make it easier to feel connected and supported. Anxious Minds and Team Solan Cancer Trust are creating a warm, welcoming group in Spennymoor for veterans, families and reservists affected by cancer a friendly place to meet, talk and spend time with people who understand.

Cancer can bring changes and challenges for the whole family. Alongside appointments and practical arrangements, there can be plenty to think about and talk through. Having a regular place to meet others can offer a welcome chance to share experiences, make connections and enjoy some time together.

You do not need to know anyone before you come along, and you can take part in whatever way feels right for you. You might want to chat, listen, meet other families or simply enjoy being in a friendly setting. Everyone is welcome.

A positive cancer support group for veterans, reservist and families

The group is for veterans, their families and reservists who have been affected by cancer. It offers a relaxed, understanding space to connect and support one another.

Every person and family has their own experience. Some people may be supporting a partner or relative, while others may be living with cancer themselves. The group brings people together in a welcoming environment where they can meet others who understand the impact cancer can have on everyday life.

There is no pressure to share personal details or talk about anything you do not want to discuss. You can join in at your own pace. A friendly conversation over a cup of tea, hearing from someone with a similar experience or simply spending time with other people can all be meaningful ways to take part.

The aim is to offer a positive space where veterans and families can build connections, feel welcome and support one another.

Why peer support can be helpful

When cancer affects a family, people may find themselves managing new routines, attending appointments or adjusting to changes in day-to-day life. It can be helpful to meet others who understand some of these experiences.

A support group gives people the chance to connect in person. You can exchange ideas, talk about what has helped you, or listen to other people’s experiences. You may discover practical suggestions or simply enjoy being part of a group where you feel understood.

There is no set way to benefit from a group. Some people enjoy talking, while others prefer to listen at first. You can come along without preparing anything to say. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and welcome.

For veterans and reservists, meeting others with a shared connection to service can help create a sense of community. Family members are included too, recognising that cancer can affect partners, relatives and the wider family around the person.

Support close to home in Spennymoor

The cancer support group takes place at the Team Solan Support Hub, in the heart of Spennymoor. The venue provides a local place for veterans, families and reservists to meet and connect.

When: Friday afternoons, 1 pm–3 pm Where: Team Solan Support Hub, 26–28 High Street, Spennymoor, County Durham, DL16 6DB Who is welcome: Veterans, families and reservists affected by cancer

If you would like to know more before attending, you can contact either organisation using the details below. The team can answer questions and help you decide whether the group feels right for you.

Working together to support the community

The group is presented by Anxious Minds and Team Solan. Together, they are offering a welcoming space where people can meet, talk and support one another.

Anxious Minds is a North East charity supporting mental health and wellbeing. Team Solan provides a community hub in Spennymoor and supports people affected by cancer. By bringing people together locally, the organisations hope to make it easier for veterans and their families to connect with others affected by cancer.

The group is open to people with different backgrounds and experiences. You do not need to be a member of another service or know someone in the group already. If cancer has affected you or someone in your family, you are welcome to find out more.

Come along and meet us

If you are looking for cancer support for veterans in County Durham, or a friendly group for a family affected by cancer, we would be pleased to welcome you. Come for a conversation, meet other people and take part in a way that feels comfortable.

You can attend on your own or with a family member. There is no need to have everything figured out before you arrive. The group is simply a place to connect, share support and spend time with people who understand.

For more information:

Anxious Minds: 07394 734116 · tracey@anxiousminds.co.uk
Team Solan: 01388 531333 · admin@teamsolan.org.uk

Supporting Veterans and Their Families Affected by Cancer Friday afternoons, 1 pm–3 pm Team Solan Support Hub, 26–28 High Street, Spennymoor, County Durham, DL16 6DB

Veterans, families and reservists are welcome. We look forward to meeting you.