A Little History
The Trust was formed in a portakabin on the site of The Royal South Hants Hospital in 1981 by a small group of medical professionals. During the first 30 years, the Trust was focused on raising funds for major projects and research taking place throughout the Wessex region. This included funding breast cancer nurses, ground-breaking research into pioneering treatments and numerous appeals for hospital wards and equipment.
Improving the lives of people affected by cancer has always been at the heart of our work. So in 2012, it was a natural progression for us to start delivering community-based services, close to people’s homes. The Trust has developed rapidly over recent years and now has four Cancer Support Centres, along with a range of other non-clinical support services.
The whole team is immensely proud of what we have achieved over the past 41 years and we are very grateful to everyone who has contributed to the charity’s journey.
1981
Wessex Cancer Trust established in a portacabin at the Royal South Hants Hospital.
1986
We set up the first breast cancer screening service in the region.
1987
We funded the first breast cancer care nurse in Wessex.
1988
Support for Southampton General Hospital Children’s cancer Unit began. The Piam Brown Ward.
1992
Out of hospital support began in our Support Centres.
2007
We provided £250,000 to renovate the Isle of Wight Chemotherapy Unit.
2012
Waterside Cancer Support Centre Joined Wessex Cancer Trust
2013
We opened our Isle of Wight Cancer Support Centre
2015
Chandler’s Ford Cancer Support Centre opened.
2016
We celebrated 35 years of cancer support.
2016
Our Bournemouth Cancer Support Centre opened.
2017
Over 100 people took part in our first Walk for Hope event and raised over £25,000!
2019
Fundraising and work began on our new Cancer Wellbeing Centre on the Isle of Wight!
2020
Isle of Wight Cancer Wellbeing Centre opened.
2020
Covid-19 forced us to temporarily close our doors and bring our support online.
2021
We celebrate 40 years of local cancer care!