The group has been set up by Maggie’s, supported by The Christie, with a brother’s group for men taking place on 21st November from 2.30pm to 4pm, and a sister’s group for women taking place on 7th November from 2.30pm to 4pm at Maggie’s in Manchester, located opposite The Christie, on Kinnaird Road, Withington.
A launch event is taking place on Thursday 17th October from 3pm to 4.30pm, where NHS colleagues, partner charity organisations, faith leaders and other members of the community are invited to find out more about the group, the services on offer at Maggie’s and how they can help to spread the message.
The Muslim Cancer Support Group is for anybody from Greater Manchester and the surrounding area who is Muslim and is living with cancer, as well as their family and friends.
Members of the groups will have the opportunity to speak to experts and receive support and information, find out more about the services on offer at Maggie’s as well as meet staff from The Christie to find out about potential research opportunities.
A co-creation committee of staff from Maggie’s and Muslim NHS colleagues have supported with forming the group and ensuring the communications were appropriate for the audience. Maggie’s strapline has been changed to read “The Ummah’s home of cancer care”, which in Islam means a community of Muslims.
Robin Muir, Centre Head at Maggie’s Manchester, said: “We’re really excited to be launching the Muslim Cancer Support Group. Maggie’s is open to anyone and everyone from the Muslim community, with support given by experts in an inclusive, safe and non-judgemental environment.
“We will be running our groups alongside expert NHS colleagues from the Muslim community and ask for your support to encourage people to attend.
“Whatever kind of cancer and whatever stage you are at, we’re here with you.”
Shahfaz Saeed, Patient Experience Manager for the Research and Innovation division at The Christie, said: “This is a much needed and excellent piece of work. We have brought together some key individuals within the Muslim Community from across Greater Manchester to join forces and have built new relationships to develop the group, which has been created by the people for the people. The Muslim Cancer Support Group has the potential to be a real gem within the Muslim Community.”
Umaymah Nisar, a breast cancer nurse at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, said: "As a clinical nurse specialist I am passionate about supporting people going through cancer treatment, as well as their family and friends. There are gaps in support, especially for minority groups, it is therefore, my privilege to be part of the Muslim Cancer Group.
"Being a Muslim myself and understanding the culture, I want to meet the needs of that community by supporting conversations and building a cancer support network. This group is a unique way to reach out to a community in need, where experiences can be shared in a safe, supportive environment."
If you are interested in attending the launch event email: [email protected]