crt-together

Working with our communities to strengthen practical support

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:00:50 GMT

CRT Together strengthens partnership with Taff Ely Foodbank

At CRT Together, a key part of our work is building strong relationships with local organisations so we can better understand what support is available within our communities and how people can be helped at the right time.

As part of this ongoing approach, we recently met with Taff Ely Foodbank, which is run by the Trussell Trust, to explore how we can work more closely together. We’re pleased to share that this has led to a strengthened partnership that will help us support people more effectively when they are facing financial pressures.

This partnership will support clearer pathways into existing food support services, helping us guide people to the right help when they need it, particularly during periods of cancer treatment, recovery, or other challenging times, when everyday costs can become harder to manage.

The CRT Together programme is rooted in working alongside our communities, listening to local need and building partnerships that complement the support already in place. By strengthening these connections, we can help ensure people feel supported, informed and signposted appropriately, without having to navigate complex systems on their own.

We’d like to thank Taff Ely Foodbank for taking the time to meet with us, and for the vital work they continue to do within the community. We’re also grateful to our colleagues and partners for their ongoing commitment to supporting people with practical needs alongside emotional and wellbeing support.

Are you or a family member impacted by cancer? Get support from a local link worker today by clicking here .

Local Practitioner Offers Free 3D Areola Tattoos to Support Breast Cancer Survivors

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:52:19 GMT

Helping people feel whole again after the physical and emotional toll of breast cancer surgery.

A breast cancer diagnosis changes everything. For many, the journey doesn’t end when treatment finishes, it often leaves lasting scars, both physically and emotionally. One of the final steps in breast reconstruction can be the recreation of an areola, which helps many women feel “complete” again after surgery.

Research shows that nipple-areola complex (NAC) tattooing can play a vital role in recovery after breast cancer, helping to restore both physical and emotional wellbeing when reconstruction or surgery has removed the nipple and areola. Unlike surgical nipple reconstruction, 3D tattoos often heal more quickly and can make a real difference to how survivors feel about themselves, improving body image, supporting intimacy, drawing attention away from scars, and helping to restore a sense of wholeness.

This support is needed more than ever. A survey by Breast Cancer Now found that 44% of women who had breast cancer said it negatively affected their body image. For many, the emotional fallout of surgery including challenges with identity, confidence and self-esteem, which can be just as difficult to cope with as the physical impact. The fact that nearly half of women report these struggles shows just how widespread the issue is.

Now, a local aesthetics practitioner based in Pontypridd is stepping forward to offer her skills to support this vital stage of healing. The psychological and emotional impacts, including loss of identity, lowered self-esteem, mental health stress, are real and longstanding. Chloe’s offer is not just cosmetic, it plays a part in mental wellbeing .

Chloe Thomas, who runs Inject Aesthetics , has worked in the aesthetics field for four years. While much of her role has focused on beauty treatments, Chloe wanted to do something that reached deeper than appearance.

| “As someone working in aesthetics, I wanted to use my skills to make a real difference beyond beauty treatments. Helping survivors feel more comfortable in their own skin is deeply rewarding and gives my work greater purpose.”

Chloe now provides free 3D areola tattoos for breast cancer survivors. This specialist tattooing technique creates the illusion of an areola on flat skin, helping women feel more like themselves again following reconstructive surgery.

She explained:

| “Breast cancer takes such a toll on both the body and mind. Offering this service helps survivors feel complete again, supporting their healing journey and reminding them of their strength and beauty.”

The service is not just cosmetic, it is deeply tied to confidence, self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing . For many, having the option of an areola tattoo marks the final step in reclaiming their body and identity after cancer.

Chloe hopes her offer will also spark a wider movement within the community:

| “I hope it empowers survivors, helps them regain self-esteem, and inspires others in the community to find ways to give back and support those who are healing.”

She makes sure every client feels comfortable and supported before their appointment, offering a safe, positive and empowering experience at every stage.

If you’d like more information, or support with any other concerns relating to cancer, please get in touch with our CRT Together Link Workers who are here to help by clicking here.

Free Gym Memberships for People with Prostate Cancer

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:10:19 GMT

Free PureGym 12-month access for those affected by prostate cancer who are on hormone therapy, delivered in partnership with ICR & The Royal Marsden.

A new national initiative has been launched by PureGym in collaboration with The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, offering free 12-month gym memberships to people affected by prostate cancer on hormone therapy.

The scheme is designed to help individuals improve their physical and mental wellbeing through exercise, with access to PureGym’s facilities, classes and equipment at no cost. Research has shown that staying active can play a significant role in supporting recovery, boosting energy levels and improving overall quality of life during and after cancer treatment.

At CRT Together, we know how vital it is that people can connect to opportunities like this. Our Link Workers are on hand to support anyone impacted by cancer across Cwm Taf Morgannwg and Aneurin Bevan UHB coalfield areas, making sure local people know what’s available and how to access it.

| “Initiatives like this can make a real difference. Removing barriers to physical activity gives people the chance to focus on their wellbeing while feeling supported,”

Adam, Partnerships Officer - CRT Together

If you or someone you know could benefit, we encourage you to speak with one of our Link Workers, who can provide details and connect you with the programme and support with other concerns you may have.

Get in touch today by clicking here .

How CRT Together Link Workers Are Making a Difference

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:13:53 GMT

Practical help and genuine care close to home. Two local people share how CRT Together’s Link Workers make a tangible difference.

At CRT Together, our Link Workers provide a vital lifeline to people affected by cancer across the Cwm Taf Morgannwg and Aneurin Bevan UHB coalfield areas. From financial advice to emotional support, they are there to listen, guide, and make sure no one feels alone.

Two women from the Rhondda Cynon Taf community, Heather and Bernadette, recently shared how their local Link Worker, Tom Broadway, has made a difference in their lives.

Heather’s Story – Pontygwaith

When Heather first reached out to CRT Together, she had just received life-changing news.

| “I messaged them on the Thursday when I found out and by the Monday I was meeting Tom. He’s absolutely amazing.”

Heather explains how the support she received helped both emotionally and practically:

| “It’s been nice to have someone there for me, and the people who helped with the financial side of things actually realised that they hadn’t been paying our benefits tidy for over a year. Also, having Tom to talk to – from the good luck message to the get well soon ones – was so comforting. They were absolutely amazing.”

Bernadette’s Story – Pentre

For Bernadette and her husband, the support was just as invaluable.

| “I was introduced to the local Macmillan office, which has been financially beneficial. Tom also gave myself and my husband space to talk issues through without being judged.”

She adds:

| “I always found Tom easy to talk to. He was never judgmental and I have benefited a great deal from his knowledge. It’s been such a positive experience.”

The Role of Our Link Workers

Stories like Heather’s and Bernadette’s highlight the role our Link Workers play in local communities:

Offering emotional support and a listening ear
Helping people understand what services and financial support are available
Providing housing and practical advice
Simply being there with a kind word or a reassuring check-in message

Every person’s journey is different, but the aim is the same: to ensure that no one faces cancer without support.

How to Get Support

Accessing help from CRT Together couldn’t be easier. You don’t need a referral – whether you are living with cancer yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply need someone to talk to, our team is here.

�� Click here to connect with your local Link Worker

New Hair Salon Offers Confidence, Care and Community

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:32:12 GMT

A project designed to help community organisations test new ideas and expand their reach.

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.

Here's a video tour of the new salon! The video was taken by Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil and upload to their Facebook page. Please visit their page to keep updated on the salon and other services they offer within Merthyr Tydfil!

@CancerAidMerthyrTydfil

Simple to Book

Anyone affected by cancer can register with Cancer Aid Merthyr and access the salon completely free of charge. Members of the public can also book into fundraising clinics to help sustain the service.

�� To book, call 01685 379633

�� Or email info@canceraidmerthyr.co.uk

About the Breaking Barriers Fund

The new salon has been made possible through support from our Breaking Barriers Fund, a grant delivered by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support. The fund exists to help community groups and organisations across Cwm Taf Morgannwg & Aneurin Bevan UHB coalfield areas, test new ideas, create local services, and offer practical and emotional support to people impacted by cancer.

Do you have an idea for a project that could make a difference? Whether it’s a new service, an activity, or a way of reaching people in your community, we want to hear from you.

�� Click here to share your project idea

Breaking Barriers to Recovery – 5K Your Way in Maesteg

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 08:46:28 GMT

We’re proud to have recently supported the launch of MOVE Against Cancer’s 5K Your Way group in Maesteg – a project using the power of community and movement to support people living with and beyond cancer.

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.

Celebrating Community, Connection, and Cancer Support – CRT Together Annual Event

Sun, 11 May 2025 09:08:01 GMT

A heartwarming day held at the iconic Pontypridd Rugby Club, filled with inspiration, community spirit, and stories of real impact.

Last month, we brought people together from across South Wales for our CRT Together Annual Celebration Event — a heartwarming day filled with inspiration, community spirit, and stories of real impact.

This event wasn’t just about looking back — although we’ve got a lot to be proud of! It was a chance to reflect on a powerful year of work supporting people affected by cancer across the Cwm Taf Morgannwg area. We heard moving stories from some of the individuals we've supported, reminding us exactly why this work matters. Each voice highlighted the importance of human connection, personalised support, and having someone in your corner when it’s needed most.

We were also joined by health professionals, volunteers, partners, and community groups who have been a key part of our journey so far — and who continue to help us grow stronger together.

Here's a video capturing a year of impact within our communities:

But the real buzz? It came from looking forward.

As we prepare to launch CRT Together within the Aneurin Bevan Health Board area, we were thrilled to hear from professionals working in these communities who spoke passionately about the need for our programme. Their words underlined just how vital this kind of community-based support is for people living with and beyond cancer.

To everyone who has supported us over the last year — whether through partnerships, referrals, volunteering, or sharing your story — thank you. You’re the reason we’re able to do what we do.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected network of support for people affected by cancer in South Wales.

We can’t wait to see what the next year brings.

CRT & Macmillan Supporting Wales Together

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:41:52 GMT

Our Partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support

At CRT, we are proud to be funded by Macmillan Cancer Support , an organisation dedicated to ensuring that everyone affected by cancer receives the help they need. As our programme continues to grow, we are reaching more individuals and families across our communities, many of whom face significant barriers when trying to access essential cancer support services.

Our mission is to bridge this gap, whether it's practical assistance, financial guidance, or emotional support, we want to ensure that people in these communities know we are here to help. By working together, we can connect individuals with the vital services often already available to them, making it easier for people with cancer and their loved ones to cope without unnecessary stress or isolation.

Why Macmillan has funded this project

Macmillan Cancer Support chose to partner with our programme because they recognise the severe health inequalities that exist in South Wales, particularly in former mining communities.

The statistics speak for themselves:

Cancer incidence rates are significantly higher in these regions.
Life expectancy is lower compared to the national average.
Many individuals in these areas face multiple barriers when trying to access healthcare, support, and financial aid.

Macmillan shares our commitment to reducing these disparities and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the cancer care they deserve. Through this partnership, we are actively working to break down obstacles, provide direct support, and create a stronger, more informed community that knows where to turn for help.

Macmillan highlights our partnership

Recently, Jenny Savage, Digital Content Editor at Macmillan , wrote an article about our partnership, highlighting why this collaboration is so important in the effort to ensure that "Nobody Should Face Cancer Alone" across Wales and the wider UK.

Her piece sheds light on th e unique challenges faced by individuals in our communities and how our joint efforts are h elping to provide much-needed support.

�� Read the full article here

We are incredibly grateful for Macmillan’s continued support and look forward to expanding our impact even further in the months ahead. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—we are here for you.

Together, we will make a difference. ��

Stark Reality of Cancer Inequality in Wales

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 13:07:34 GMT

The Stark Reality of Cancer Inequality in Wales – Why CRT Together is a Lifeline for Deprived Communities

A recent report from Cancer in the UK 2025: Socioeconomic Deprivation has revealed some alarming statistics: cancer death rates are nearly 50% higher for people living in the most deprived areas of Wales compared to the least deprived areas. This translates to around four additional deaths every day – a stark reality that underscores the urgent need for targeted support, education, and intervention in these communities.

The Devastating Impact of Deprivation on Cancer Outcomes

The figures are not just numbers; they represent lives lost too soon. Nearly half of the excess deaths in deprived areas are caused by lung cancer, with mortality rates in these communities being two and a half times higher than in wealthier parts of Wales. These statistics highlight how poverty and social inequality significantly impact health outcomes, from increased risk factors to limited access to early detection and treatment.

The reasons behind this disparity are complex and multifaceted. People in deprived areas are more likely to face:-

Higher smoking rates due to long-standing socio-economic factors.
Increased exposure to environmental risks, such as poor air quality.
Delayed cancer diagnosis because of barriers to healthcare access, including financial struggles, limited transportation, and reduced awareness of symptoms.
Greater difficulty in accessing specialist treatment and support services.

Why CRT Together is Vital for These Communities

At CRT Together, we recognise that cancer does not affect all communities equally, and our mission is to bridge the gap by providing support where it is needed most. Our programme plays a crucial role in helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis by offering:-

Awareness campaigns: to educate communities about the importance of early detection and screening.
Accessible support services: to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has guidance and emotional support, when and where they need it.
Collaboration with local healthcare providers: to improve access to treatment and specialist care.
Financial and practical assistance: for those struggling with the additional costs of cancer treatment, such as travel expenses and lost income.

Tackling the Disparity – A Call to Action

The statistics from Cancer in the UK 2025 are a wake-up call that cannot be ignored.

No one should face worse cancer outcomes simply because of where they live or their financial circumstances. We need urgent action to reduce health inequalities, improve early diagnosis rates, and ensure that support services reach those who need them most.

CRT Together is committed to making a real difference, but we cannot do it alone. We call on policymakers, healthcare professionals, and local communities to join us in tackling this crisis. Together, we can break down barriers, improve outcomes, and ensure that everyone in Wales has access to the cancer support they deserve.

If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to CRT Together today. Let’s work together to change the future of cancer care in Wales.

#crttogether

#cancersupportwales

#nobodyshouldfacecanceralone

Lung Cancer Screening

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 09:12:23 GMT

Help Shape the Future of Lung Cancer Screening in Wales

Public Health Wales is working on plans to introduce a new lung cancer screening programme in Wales, and they want to hear from you!

If you:

Live in Wales
Are aged between 50 and 75
Are a current or former tobacco smoker

...then your input is invaluable.

By completing this short survey, you can share your views and experiences to help shape how this life-saving programme is developed. The survey takes just 10 minutes to complete, and your feedback will directly contribute to improving early detection and treatment of lung cancer in Wales.

Your Voice Matters - Let Us Hear it

Your answers will be stored anonymously. This means Public Health Wales will not ask your name, and you will not be identified.  By sharing your views, you can help shape this new service. Click the link below to take the survey.

Thank you for your support. 

Lung Cancer Screening Survey

Fatigue Workshop - in partnership with Maggie's

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 12:22:42 GMT

Feeling Tired All the Time? Let’s Talk About It!

At CRT Together, we are thrilled to partner with Maggie's Cardiff to bring you a special Fatigue Workshop designed to support those affected by cancer. Are you, or someone you care about, struggling with relentless exhaustion despite resting? This workshop is here to provide practical tips and strategies to help you feel more energised and regain a sense of control over your daily life.

What to Expect:
This empowering session will explore effective tools and techniques for managing fatigue, helping you to improve your quality of life. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with others who understand what you’re going through and discover ways to better manage your energy levels.

Event Details:

Date: 16th January

Time: 1:00 PM

Location: Hwb Cana, Penywaun, Aberdare

Cost: Free!

This workshop is all about you. Take this chance to focus on your well-being in a supportive and understanding environment.

Spaces are limited, so make sure to reserve your spot today by clicking the link below:

SIGN UP HERE

Let’s work together to ensure nobody faces cancer alone. Please share this post to help someone who might need it.

#CRTTogether #NobodyShouldFaceCancerAlone #CancerSupport

CRT Christmas Opening Times

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 16:35:33 GMT

Our offices will be closed from 20th December until 6th January. During this time, if you have any queries that can wait, please feel free to leave us a message/email, and we will get back to you as soon as we return to the office.

If your concern is more urgent, you can reach out to the Macmillan Cancer Support by calling 0808 808 00 00 or using their online chat service to speak with an information and support advisor or a cancer information nurse specialist. The helpline is available 7 days a week, from 8am to 8pm.

For any emergency medical attention, please contact 111 for non-urgent medical advice or 999 for emergencies.

During this time of year, we hope you are able to find moments of comfort and support, and please know we’ll be here to assist you when we return in the new year.

#CRTTogether #communitysupport

Christmas at Cana

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 15:44:34 GMT

Join Us for a Festive Celebration at ‘Christmas at Cana’! ��✨

Get into the holiday spirit with us next Monday, 2nd December , at our ‘Christmas at Cana’ event ! Whether you're looking for a day of creative fun, a chance to try something new, or simply a warm and welcoming space, we've got you covered. Enjoy a variety of craft activities , course taster sessions , refreshments , and plenty of friendly advice and support to help you make the most of the festive season.

This event is free of charge and open to everyone in the Penywaun and Upper Cynon areas . Doors open at 12:30pm , and the festivities run through to 6:30pm . We’ve planned a fantastic lineup of activities and can’t wait to welcome you all!

�� Activity Timetable ��

12:30pm – 2:00pm: Beauty Workshop
1:00pm – 3:00pm: Hessian Hearts
1:00pm – 5:15pm: Sugarcraft
3:15pm – 5:30pm: Mini Wreaths
3:00pm – 5:30pm: Digital Workshop
6:00pm – 6:30pm: Memorial Tree & Light Switch-On

We’d love to see as many of you as possible join us for this special day. While the holiday season is magical for many, it can also be a challenging time for others. Let’s come together to share joy, connection, and creativity. Don’t forget to wear your Christmas jumper for an extra dose of festive cheer! ��

�� Find us at:

Hwb Cana

Gwladys Street, Penywaun, CF44 9DE

�� For more details, give us a call at 01495 367680 .

Let’s make this a day to remember – we look forward to celebrating with you!

Supporting the Local Community

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 13:02:47 GMT

Last week, we shared some photos from our visit to Abercynon, where we teamed up with our friends at Ray of Light to help make a positive impact at their new home. This week, we’re excited to take you a step closer with a new video showcasing the day in action!

Supporting the local community is at the core of CRT’s mission, and this visit was no exception. As you’ll see in the video, it was a very busy day as we tackled a variety of tasks to enhance the facilities that Ray of Light provides to the people they support. From small fixes to larger jobs, each effort was a step toward making a real difference to the site.

We hope you enjoy watching the video as much as we enjoyed making it happen. Thank you for being a part of our journey to support and uplift those that need it most.

A Little Ray of Light

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 11:27:46 GMT

The CRT team were out in the community recently supporting our friends at Ray of Light a remarkable cancer support group offering a wide range of assistance to those impacted by cancer. We were thrilled to bring in an enthusiastic group of volunteers from the CRT team and Welsh Water to Ray of Lights fantastic venue in Abercynon, to see how we could lend a hand and enhance the space.

As part of our CRT Together initiative, collaboration is essential. In the Cwm Taf Morgannwg area alone, 3,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year, and no single organisation can support all those in need. That’s why partnerships like the one between CRT and Ray of Light are so valuable. Working together, we aim to serve the broader community in the most impactful way possible.

We had a fantastic day spent outdoors, helping to improve Ray of Light’s facilities and they have also benefited financially from our partnership, as one of the recipients of the Breaking Barriers Fund , which funded the solar panels on their roof, helping them be energy efficient for years to come.

The Ray of Light facility isn't your typical cancer support centre. It’s not just about quiet rooms and talking circles. It’s a vibrant place where people can engage in craft activities, participate in wellbeing sessions, or simply enjoy the fresh air. Ray of Light offers a refreshing and holistic approach to support, and we look forward to continuing our wonderful partnership with Sue and her team for many years to come.

To find out more about Ray of Light visit their website at: www.rayoflightwales.org.uk

Adventure Therapy

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 07:40:37 GMT

We've been working with Leila for a while now, and her sessions are designed to be engaging, interactive, and most importantly, fun. These sessions are specifically designed for women recovering from breast cancer, offering a supportive environment to connect and heal. They are led by female instructors unless stated otherwise on the event posters.

As October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it's the perfect time to highlight how initiatives like these play a vital role in the recovery journey. Therapy and healing don't always have to involve sitting down and talking; these sessions offer an active, uplifting way to support both physical and emotional well-being. We hope they are a great success and lead to the formation of a dedicated breast cancer recovery group.

We wish Leila and her team continued success in helping women through their recovery. For more information and to book your spot for free via Eventbrite, please follow the link below.

BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE

National Strategic Clinical Network for Cancer - Survey

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 16:29:57 GMT

Have Your Say.

Support the National Strategic Clinical Network for Cancer by completing a survey designed to understand the emotional impact of cancer and the support services available to you.

Cancer can bring about many different emotions, affecting not only the individual diagnosed, but also their friends, families, and carers. These emotions may change over time, and having access to support can help manage them. As part of this project, we would like to hear about your experiences in seeking help for your concerns, or if you felt there was a lack of support available to help manage your feelings and emotions during this time. The team is inviting individuals, family members, and carers impacted by cancer to participate by completing this survey.

The overall aim of the project is to identify gaps in current service provision and offer recommendations to enhance psychological and emotional support for cancer patients, their families, and carers.

Link to Survey - English

Link to Survey - Welsh

If you require any further information or would like to share your experience you can contact the team direct. CLICK TO EMAIL TEAM

Or you can complete the below form and a member of the team will get back to you.

LINK TO FORM

Thank you - your contribution can make a real difference.

Supporting the Community - Bosom Pals

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 12:42:57 GMT

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

Bowel Screening Wales expands screening programme to include 50-year olds

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 10:13:12 GMT

As of Wednesday 9 ^th October 2024, Bowel Screening Wales will start to invite people aged 50 for bowel cancer screening for the first time. It follows the lowering of the age from 60 to 51 over the previous three years. The programme will be rolled out to the newly eligible age group gradually over the next 10 months.

Bowel cancer is one of the most common causes of death from cancer in Wales. Over 2,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year in Wales, and it results in over 900 deaths. Evidence shows that screening people at a younger age enables more bowel cancers to be picked up at an earlier stage, when treatment is likely to be more effective and survival chances improved.

The screening test used is the highly effective Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), which is easy for people to use at home, requiring just one sample of poo. The test looks for tiny traces of blood (haemoglobin) in the sample, which are too small to be seen but can be an indicator of bowel cancer and benign polyps. In addition to the age expansion to 50-year-olds, Bowel Screening Wales will also lower the positive threshold level of the screening FIT from 120µg of haemoglobin/g for faeces to 80µg from Monday 7 ^th October 2024. This change will increase the sensitivity of the screening test and result in more cancers, polyps and adenomas being detected by screening.

The following statement has been released by Welsh Government: Bowel screening age lowered to 50 in Wales | GOV.WALES

A Heatfelt Moment

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 13:22:23 GMT

As the sun sets over St. Paul's, a heartfelt moment arises following a wonderful meeting with Macmillan at their head office. The news broke of Princess Kate completing her chemotherapy treatment for cancer. She shared her experience, speaking of how vital support was during this challenging time.

For anyone currently facing a cancer diagnosis, we at CRT Together, in partnership with Macmillan and other community organisations, are here to assist with practical concerns and provide the support you need. Reach out to us and let us help you through this difficult time.

You can find out more about what we do by visiting our new website which is www.crttogether.org .

Concert to Celebrate 16 Years of Bosom Pals

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 11:42:43 GMT

CRT Together are proud to be supporting an unforgettable Evening of Music and Song as we celebrate 16 wonderful years of Bosom Pals Breast Cancer Support Group in Pontyclun.

�� Date: 5th October 2024
��️ Venue: Talbot Green Community Centre, CF72 8FE
�� Time: Doors open 6:15pm for a 7:30pm start

We have worked together to secure a fantastic line-up of performances that will guarantee a night filled with music, joy and celebration.

The venue will be beautifully dressed to acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness Month and there will be chances to purchase items from the Bosom Pal ladies and buy raffle tickets, with proceeds supporting the cause. You’ll also learn more about our programme and how we can support individuals across Cwm Taf Morgannwg who have been impacted by cancer.

CRT Together is proud to be involved in this special event and we hope you will join us in celebrating this milestone.

Tickets are now available and can be purchased through Sue Hadlow or The Boars Head.

T. 07889 044 697 E. suhadlow13@btinternet.com

Merthyr Pride

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:36:48 GMT

Over 1,500 people attended the second Merthyr Pride, a safe space for our local LGBTQ+ community to come together, feel connected and celebrate freely.

Ann Broadway, programme manager for CRT Together was privileged to be part of the celebrations, which was a fantastic, safe space for our coalfields community to celebrate equality and diversity.

A special thanks to Nolly’s Nibbles for her Introduction to EE where we will be present at their Summer Fete.

It’s vital that we get out into our community as much as possible and let as many people know what fantastic work goes on at CRT Together. So, if you or anyone you know has an event that you think would be beneficial for us to attend then please get in touch.

It was great celebrating love, equality, and community with everyone. Thanks for making it a day to remember!

#MerthyrPride #CRTTogether #nollysnibbles #NoOneShouldFaceCancerAlone