A SUPPORT service for people affected by cancer is rolling into the area courtesy of Macmillan’s Cancer Support.

As well as a distinctive green single-decker bus, online help, information centres and a helpline team are available.

When a cancer diagnosis is delivered, it can be overwhelming for patients and those close to them.

There is only a limited amount of time which can be spent with health professionals and quite often not enough time for patients to ask questions.

The charity has set up a mobile information service in response to this in the shape of a large green bus emblazoned with the Macmillan Cancer Support logo.

This gives anyone who has been affected by cancer a chance to talk to professionals in confidence about any questions or worries they may have about their illness.

In September Macmillan’s Mobile Information and Support Service team will be in Ayrshire to provide free, confidential information and support to people in the community.

Cancer Information and Support Specialist, Craig Blackwood, who is from Cumnock, said: “We wanted to make sure we go even further this year to get support throughout rural communities in Scotland. We are now getting out and about more and can offer a variety of services alongside local organisations depending on where we are going.

“We have a large range of free information leaflets for people to take away about all aspects of a cancer diagnosis and our Information Specialists are available to provide one to one confidential support.

“As I live in East Ayrshire, I know that we often travel large distances for treatment so am keen for people in the area to get as much from our visit as possible. Unlike almost all other clinical services, they do not need an appointment to visit us – it’s an instant, free, confidential and comprehensive service.

“The team and myself are there to support people with their questions and concerns, we’re a friendly bunch.”

They will be at the Cross in Kilmarnock on Thursday, September 15, from 10am to 4pm..

Call 0808 808 00 00, Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm, or visit www.macmillan.org.uk for more information, or just to chat.