Derry's Hive Cancer Support facing huge funding shortfall

Derry’s leading community based cancer support charity has today reaffirmed its commitment to its members in the face of major funding and staffing challenges.

Hive Cancer Support (formerly Pink Ladies Cancer Support Group) has been dedicated to improving the lives of people with cancer for over two decades.

During that time it has evolved into a highly respected community based charity that works across the North West and in Donegal.

As well as supporting people with a cancer diagnosis the charity has also spearheaded cancer awareness and prevention through its popular education sessions.

However, despite its success the organisation has not been immune to the challenges afflicting the charity and community sectors.

Speaking at the AGM today, Monday February 2, Project Manager Maureen Collins revealed the organisation is facing severe funding challenges which may result in job losses within the organisation.

“We have been strategic and careful with every grant we’ve received, but despite this, we now face a huge shortfall,” she said.

“Across the community sector, organisations big and small are facing the same reality.

“In recent months, we’ve sadly seen partner organisations lose their funding altogether.

“While there are still some opportunities to apply for programme funding and bits of core support, salaries remain the biggest pressure point — and we’re not alone in that.”

Hive Cancer Support is currently waiting on the outcome of a number of funding applications and will know by March 9 if it can continue to sustain staff salaries.

“Regardless of the outcome, Hive’s team of volunteers, staff, and supporters remain committed to early detection, prevention, and community engagement,” Mrs Collins continued.

“We will keep going — adapting, collaborating, and standing strong for the people we serve.”

Our promise remains the same – that Hive will be a place of warmth, belonging and practical support whenever it is needed.

“This very week we are running two major events for World Cancer Day delivering two conferences over two days at the City Hotel and Inishowen Gateway Hotel– cross border, cross community, and genuinely global in outlook.”

.For more information on Hive Cancer Support go to www.hivecancersupport.co.uk