Green social prescribing scheme earns national award nomination

Velindre Cancer Centre and Ray of Light Cancer Support’s green social prescribing sessions have been nominated for a national award.

It was announced this week that the service has been shortlisted for a Mental Health & Wellbeing Wales Award in the ‘Best Mental Health Support Service’ category

The award is presented every year to a mental health support service which has shown and provided “exceptional help to individuals through their daily actions as an organisation”.

“We are overwhelmed and excited to be nominated for a national award and recognised for the mental health support we offer every week”, said Rhiannon Freshney, Velindre University NHS Trust Environmental Development Officer.

“These sessions are for anyone affected by cancer, whether you’re a patient, a carer or a family member. A lot of support is often specifically for patients, but Ray of Light support absolutely anyone affected.”

Every Tuesday between 10.30am and 12.30pm at Velindre Cancer Centre, the sessions provide a non-judgemental space for anyone affected by cancer.

They are completely free to attend and are based around the therapeutic properties of nature and the core principles of finding a use for everything, with nothing being wasted.

Sue Norris, Ray of Light Founder and Operational Director said “It’s wonderful to have this recognition for the support we offer.

“Ray of Light was set up in 2009 to provide emotional support for those affected by cancer, and we have since become a registered charity providing a range of support, both online and face-to-face.”

“To have this recognition is special,” added Becky Fawcett of Ray Light Cancer Support. “You see people all the way through their journeys, and it’s wonderful to make a positive difference to their lives.”

More information about this weekly initiative can be found here, and the awards’ ceremony will be held on Monday 10 October at the Village Hotel in Cardiff.

"I don't think I would have got through it without them.

There have been times where I didn't think I was going to get

through the week, and the support I've received has been unbelievable."