Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil

Nestled in the heart of the South Wales Valleys, Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil (CAMT) is a glowing example of how a local charity can make a profound difference. Founded in 2003, today it operates from its purpose-built “Centre of Excellence” in Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil, offering free, comprehensive support to anyone whose life has been touched by cancer across the Borough.

What follows is a deeper look into what Cancer Aid Merthyr does, why it matters and how you can get involved.

Their Mission & Purpose

At its core, the mission of Cancer Aid Merthyr is simple yet powerful: to provide practical and emotional support for cancer patients, their families and carers during and after diagnosis. More specifically:

• They aim to relieve the needs of those affected by cancer within the Borough of Merthyr Tydfil through services “not normally provided by the statutory authorities.”

• Their services are free of charge, available to anyone living in the Merthyr Tydfil area whose life has been impacted by cancer.

• They emphasise confidentiality, personal care and a welcoming non-clinical environment: when the Centre was planned, clients said they didn’t want “another medical setting.”

  
  

Cancer Aid Merthyr seeks not just to provide services, but to do so in a way that recognises the whole person; physical, emotional and practical.

What Do Cancer Aid Merthyr Do

Their work spans multiple strands. Here are some of the main areas of support:

1. Transport to hospital and treatment appointments

o A door-to-door service to ensure patients can attend outpatient clinics or treatment across South Wales.

o Reliable and confidential, which removes one key barrier for many undergoing treatment.

2. Counselling and emotional support

o One-to-one counselling, couples/family counselling, children’s counselling, bereavement support.

o Drop-in centre for information, a friendly cup of tea, a safe space to talk.

3. Complementary therapies

o Aromatherapy, reflexology, mindfulness, relief of stress/tension, boosting wellbeing.

o These do not replace medical treatment, but support the emotional, mental and physical wellbeing of clients.

4. Support for carers and families

o Monthly coffee mornings open to patients, carers and families, a chance to connect and share.

o Signposting to welfare/benefits advice, support groups.

5. A welcoming local centre

o Their Centre of Excellence on Upper Union Street in Dowlais is explicitly designed to be non-sterile and welcoming, not like a hospital.

o Open weekdays from approx. 9.30 am-4.30 pm.

Why It Matters

Cancer touches everyone: the patient, family, friends, carers. A charity like Cancer Aid Merthyr makes a real difference because:

• It fills gaps in support that go beyond medical treatment, transport, emotional wellbeing, complementary therapies.

• It is locally based and accessible, people in the Merthyr Tydfil borough don’t have to travel far for help.

• It removes cost barriers, its services are free, reducing financial strain on patients and families.

• It creates community and support networks, not just isolated treatment, but people supported through their journey.

• It emphasises dignity and choice, allowing people to engage with what they need, when they need it.

The Charity Commission notes: “Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil provides free services to those whose lives have been touched by cancer living within the Merthyr Tydfil Borough. Services include transport to and from hospital and to our centre where we provide counselling and complementary therapy.”

How You Can Support or Access Services

For Clients / Families:

• If you live in the Merthyr Tydfil Borough and your life has been touched by cancer, you’re eligible for support.

• Contact: 01685 379633 or info@canceraidmerthyr.co.uk.

• Drop-in during open hours: Monday-Friday, 9.30 am–4.30 pm.

  
  

  Spread the Word:

  
  

• Raising awareness helps ensure no one facing cancer in the area feels they must face it alone.

• Sharing the centre’s services with friends, family, social networks, vital.

Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil

Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil embodies a vital truth: battling cancer isn’t just about medical treatment, it’s about people, about community, about support, about being seen and helped when you need it most.

Whether you’re someone facing a diagnosis, a carer or a friend wanting to help, this charity is about keeping you company on the journey, lifting the practical burdens and nurturing emotional strength.

If you’re in Merthyr Tydfil or know someone who is, please consider reaching out or supporting this local lifeline.