Redditch cancer support group moves to new venue

A REDDITCH cancer support group has moved to a new venue.

Ribbons – Cancer for All was set up by Kerry Dowler, who suffered severe nerve damage after having breast cancer.

She underwent all the treatment she needed in Manchester, which included chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

She started the group after she moved back to Redditch following her own experience having struggled to find inclusive support that met her needs, she identified a clear gap and decided to create something herself.

The group offers a welcoming space open to anyone affected by cancer, regardless of age, diagnosis or whether they are supporting a loved one.

With no fees or barriers, it provides informal meet-ups where people can talk, share experiences and support one another over a cup of tea and homemade cake.

Chris Bloore MP visited the group and met members at their new home at the spiritualist centre on Eeasmore Road, seeing firsthand the difference the initiative is making to people across the community.

He said: “It was a real privilege to meet Kerry and the Ribbons group and to see firsthand the incredible support they provide.

“Kerry set up something simple but incredibly powerful: a space open to anyone affected by cancer, with no fees and no barriers – just a cup of tea, a slice of homemade cake and people who understand.

“Cancer can be an incredibly lonely journey. You can be surrounded by people who care about you but still feel like no one truly gets it. Groups like Ribbons change that. They are more than just meet-ups – they are lifelines.”