History of the Ipswich Cancer Wellbeing and Information Centre

This centre was built by the cancer charity, Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, founded by John Le Vay and funded by the generosity and support of local people

The charity continues to support the centre and contributes to funding our counselling service and complementary therapists

Previously known as the John le Vay Cancer Wellbeing and Information Centre, the Ipswich Cancer Wellbeing and Information Centre is here for anyone affected by cancer, to offer a listening ear and to provide whatever support, services or referrals are needed.

The Centre and charity was the vision of our Consultant and Clinical Lead John le Vay who sadly died of cancer himself in 2012.

John wanted the people of Suffolk to be able to access information and wellbeing support in one place, with a warm, friendly welcome – a sanctuary, away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the department. He was a visionary who pioneered and championed the clinical nurse specialist role and our wellbeing services. John’s legacy continues through the centre and the continuing development of Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, working with the hospital and in our community Cancer Wellbeing Hub in the heart of Ipswich.

Since it opened in 2004 the centre has continued to develop and grow in response to local needs and the patient and their loved ones are at the centre of all we do. Offering a wide range of support, resources and services for both patients and carers including counselling and complementary therapies, a wide range of educational opportunities, support groups and exercise schemes.

Our hope is that whilst we all have individual needs, issues and concerns, that the centre has ‘something to offer all those affected by cancer.