Supporting the Community - Bosom Pals
CRT Together • 16 October 2024

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On Saturday 5th October 2024 we marked a very special occasion as we celebrated the 16th year of Bosom Pals’ unwavering support for cancer patients and their families. Hosted by CRT Together, the concert was a heartfelt tribute to the incredible work that Bosom Pals has carried out throughout the years, providing crucial support to those navigating their cancer journey and beyond. The event also served to raise essential funds to ensure that this wonderful group can continue its vital work within the community.


Bosom Pals, known for their compassionate care and support, is now further empowered through the backing of CRT Together, along with their patrons including Rhondda Cynon Taff Council, community councils, and Interlink. This partnership ensures that Bosom Pals can carry on its mission to provide strength, hope, and love to those in need.

As Bosom Pals proudly states, “You don’t know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.” At CRT Together, we share this belief and are committed to ensuring that nobody faces a cancer diagnosis alone. Together, we will bring hope, care, and meaningful conversations to the lives of many.

 

Tonight’s event was more than just a celebration of past achievements; it was the beginning of a beautiful partnership between Bosom Pals and CRT Together. This collaboration is set to expand the reach and impact of both organisations, bringing even more hope and support to the community.

 

For more information on how to get involved or support this important cause, please contact CRT Together or Bosom Pals

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by Adam Downey • 8 September 2025
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New Hair Salon Offers Confidence, Care and Community

by Adam Downey • 1 September 2025
Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil has been able to open the doors to a brand-new hair salon thanks to support from the Breaking Barriers Fund – a project designed to help community organisations test new ideas and expand their reach. The salon, based at Cancer Aid’s centre in Dowlais, provides a unique and much-needed service: free, one-to-one hair appointments for anyone affected by cancer. From wig fittings and restyling, to specialist advice on hair loss and scalp care, the salon offers a calm, private space where people can feel comfortable and supported. During the summer holidays, the team even ran a series of back-to-school haircuts for children – with every appointment helping to fund the continuation of one-to-one salon sessions for patients. “It’s not just about hair – it’s about confidence, dignity and wellbeing,” explains stylist Donna, who runs the service. “For many people, cancer treatment changes the way they feel about themselves. We want to help them feel more like ‘them’ again.” A Service for Patients – and the Wider Community All cancer-related salon services are completely free of charge for registered patients, but the team is also opening its doors through fundraising clinics. These work exactly like a regular salon appointment, with the same calm, quiet environment – but with the added benefit that proceeds go directly back into supporting Cancer Aid’s services. Appointments are available every Thursday, offering: Dry cuts Wash & blow dry Cut & blow dry Hair up / styling Men’s barbering services Wig support (fitting, cutting, washing) Hair, hair loss and scalp care advice Importantly, the salon does not offer chemical treatments such as colours or perms – keeping the focus on wellbeing, confidence, and practical support. 

Breaking Barriers to Recovery – 5K Your Way in Maesteg

by Adam Downey • 7 August 2025
Thanks to a £1,000 grant from the Breaking Barriers Fund, sessions in Maesteg are now helping local people affected by cancer access gentle, supportive, and empowering exercise through their local parkrun. The group is aimed at those undergoing treatment, survivors, family members, and even local healthcare professionals. The importance of staying active after a cancer diagnosis is well established. Regular, gentle exercise has been shown to reduce cancer-related fatigue, improve physical strength and mobility, and boost overall wellbeing. MOVE Against Cancer’s 5K Your Way programme brings this to life in a friendly, welcoming way that breaks down barriers to participation – especially vital in areas like Maesteg, which faces some of the highest cancer inequalities in Wales. Michelle, one of the Maesteg group’s volunteer ambassadors, shares her story: “I’ve been an active participant at parkrun for more than 10 years. I have complex health conditions, and last year I was also diagnosed with cancer. Attending parkrun has always been an important part of my self-management, so I was delighted to be asked to volunteer as an ambassador for 5K Your Way. I find volunteering extremely rewarding – walking and talking with many participants, including those affected by cancer. Parkrun is far more than a 5K run or walk – it’s social contact, being part of a community, being outdoors in the fresh air. Cancer and chronic health conditions can be very isolating. Isolation can quickly lead to a loss in confidence and increased anxiety. 5K Your Way supports people to take that first step back into community life, and I look forward to each session – it gives me real satisfaction to know that my presence might be helping others.” What’s next? The Maesteg group runs on the last Saturday of each month at the Maesteg Welfare Park parkrun, and is open to anyone affected by cancer. Whether you want to run, walk, or simply come along for a cuppa and chat – you’ll be warmly welcomed. Follow the group's Facebook page here to keep up to date.