Health and wellbeing
Pop-up cancer conversation shop to mark World Cancer Day this February
Published on
A pop-up shop in Walsall town centre will open for one day only in February, coinciding with World Cancer Day, to raise awareness about cancer and encourage residents to get support for themselves or family and friends.
The pop-up shop will open on Friday 7 February, from 10am to 3pm in the Saddlers Centre, Walsall (located on the first floor). Organised by the local NHS in partnership with Walsall Council, the pop-up shops are an opportunity for residents to meet and talk with a range of clinicians about how to check for symptoms of cancer, screening programmes, the support services available and what to do if they’re concerned.
Residents and visitors to the Saddlers Centre are encouraged to attend to get advice on how to recognise the signs and symptoms of cancer, find out more about the bowel, breast and cervical screening programmes and learn how to reduce their risk of developing the disease. Local support will also be offered for people living with and beyond cancer.
Experts from different organisations, including NHS services, public health, Macmillan and other charities will be in attendance to offer informal and friendly advice.
Healthcare teams will also be on hand to help people concerned about signs and symptoms, as well as carry out free blood pressure and blood sugar checks. The shop will also be able to refer anyone onto other specialist support services, such as help to quit smoking or managing their weight.
“ We are proud to support this important initiative in Walsall town centre, coinciding with World Cancer Day which takes place every 4 February.
This pop-up shop is an opportunity for residents to learn more about cancer prevention and early detection. By working together with the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) and local organisations, we want to ensure that our communities are informed about signs and symptoms, early detection, prevention and support for living with and beyond cancer.
We want to see everyone with cancer diagnosed as quickly and accurately as possible and I encourage everyone to visit the Saddlers Centre on Friday 7 February, to take advantage of the expert advice and support available. The pop-up shop makes it easy for shoppers to drop in and get quick and free information. Early detection can save lives and we are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our residents. “
“ This is why initiatives like the cancer pop-up conversation shops are so important. They provide an invaluable opportunity to engage with individuals one-on-one about cancer - especially those who may not realise they are at risk, may not recognise potential symptoms, or feel hesitant or fearful about taking action.
Remember, if you notice something unusual for you or something that isn't going away, it’s important to consult your GP. While it’s likely not cancer, identifying it early can make a significant difference if it is. “
ENDS
Notes to editor:
- Two other pop-up shops will be taking place across the Black Country:
- Tuesday, 4 February - Urban Rooms, 19 Queen’s Square, Wolverhampton (opposite NatWest bank), 10am-3pm
- Saturday, 8 February - Brierley Hill Market, at the back by the café, High Street, Brierley Hill, 10am to 3pm
- To find out more about the pop-up shops visit the NHS Black Country ICB website: World Cancer Day: Pop-up cancer conversations in the Black Country :: Black Country ICB
- To find out more about cancer visit the NHS Black Country ICB website: Cancer :: Black Country ICB
- World Cancer Day takes place every 4 February. This year, the day will highlight how people can get the support they need and how everyone can work together to help others affected by cancer. Find out more including details of support available on the Macmillan Cancer Support website.
- If you are affected by cancer and need support contact the Living with and beyond cancer team, via the Macmillan Cancer Information & Support Hub - Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust
