York Against Cancer celebrates the First Anniversary of The Leveson Centre and marks its official launch

On 6th February 2023, local charity York Against Cancer was proud to open the doors of their new cancer support centre, The Leveson Centre.

A year on, The Leveson Centre has helped close to 5,000 people through a mixture of phone calls, walk-ins and booked appointments.

Today, York Against Cancer is celebrating the one year anniversary of The Leveson Centre with an official launch event. Joined by Labour MP Rachael Maskell and Conservative MP Julian Sturdy, the charity held an opening ceremony to commemorate all that has been achieved so far and all that is yet to come.

Since opening last year, The Leveson Centre has been a welcome addition to the region’s cancer support services, offering a wide range of resources for anyone affected by cancer. Cancer patients can make use of services such as six free sessions of complementary therapy, join a weekly Pilates class, attend Look Good Feel Better workshops, take up a new hobby in an arts and craft group, and much more.

Steve Leveson, founder and Trustee of York Against Cancer, says, “As a local charity, York Against Cancer is proud to have developed this facility for the people of York and surrounding area. The Centre provides support for patients, their families and carers.  Since opening a year ago there have been nearly 5,000 contacts and we are confident that the centre will continue to benefit those affected by cancer.”

In addition to the direct support available to cancer patients, the Centre provides plenty of community and wellbeing activities for anyone who has been affected by the disease. For adolescents with a family member going through cancer, appointments can be booked with Rebecca, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and her registered therapy dog, Luna, to receive psychological support; the Rhythm of Life Wellbeing Choir has heralded great success since starting in September, made up of patients, friends, family and York Against Cancer’s own volunteers all eager to come together in song. Similarly, every week The Leveson Centre hosts a coffee morning for anyone affected by cancer to pop in and have a chat with others in similar situations. Services like these have proven to be an invaluable touchstone in the lives of those affected by cancer, bringing joy, understanding and a sense of togetherness to anyone who needs it.

After using the services on offer at The Leveson Centre, a cancer patient got in touch to express their thanks; “You have made me feel so much better about myself, not only with the massage but about taking time out for me. Thank you for being so kind and caring. Keep up the amazing work and good luck with everything in the future!”

The Leveson Centre’s official launch saw a congregation of the charity’s Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, service users and more as MPs Maskell and Sturdy cut the ribbon. CEO of York Against Cancer, Julie Russell states, “The vision was to create a calm and caring environment where people can come to receive support whilst going through cancer. One year on and it is heartwarming and rewarding to hear the many compliments we are receiving. The Centre’s success is testament to the vision of the board of trustees and the hard work of the staff.”

If you would like to make use of The Leveson Centre’s resources, it can be found in York Community Stadium, Huntington; alternatively, get in touch on 01904 202647, email support@thelevesoncentre.org.uk or visit thelevesoncentre.org.uk to learn more.