Translate
The new centre, designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, was opened by Her Majesty the Queen in January this year and has seen on average 60 people per day since then. It provides a space for people living with cancer, their families, and their friends to seek advice and support away from a hospital environment.
Elected governors Natasha Leith-Smith, Sean Baine and Dov Gerber were joined by Atka Raja, former non-executive director, for the visit.
Atka said: “It’s great to see this incredible building open so our patients can get the support they need during the most difficult and challenging moments of their lives. I very much look forward to seeing what the next chapter of the partnership between the Royal Free London and Maggie’s brings.”
Natasha commented: “I was very happy to hear that the local community, as well as our patients, can access the life-changing services that Maggie’s provide through the new centre. I have no doubt that this building will act as sanctuary for those affected by cancer and we are extremely lucky to have this so close to home.”
Patients do not need a referral or an appointment to visit the centre. Staff are on hand to provide help and information, support groups and activities and benefits advice, all designed to make coping with cancer easier.
Sean said: “The centre really is an amazing space. They have gone to great lengths to make it feel homely and ensure that everyone who walks though their doors feels welcome.”
Governors and non-executive directors also had the opportunity to visit the private patients’ unit at the RFH. They were shown the incredible facilities on offer to patients including inpatient ward, outpatient clinics, the oncology suite and the dialysis unit.
The ‘go see’ visits give governors and non-executive directors the opportunity to see different parts of the trust together monthly. They listen to staff, meet patients and provide constructive feedback about what they have seen.
