A new £3 million cancer care unit has been opened at the Ulster Hospital today, Monday 18 October.

Health Minister Robin Swann visited the Dundonald site to officially open the facility, which brings together chemotherapy and support services to treat patients with cancer.

Designed with the help of people affected by cancer, the new Macmillan Unit at the Ulster Hospital site was a partnership between the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and the MacMillan Cancer Support.

Speaking following the opening ceremony, Minister Swann said: "This new unit is a great example of successful partnership working between South Eastern Trust and Macmillan. Most importantly people living with cancer are at the heart of this Unit and their personal experiences have helped to shape the way it looks and feels, as well as the support it provides.

"It is important for me to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff, for their hard work and dedication during the ongoing pandemic; and for the work that they are taking forward to rebuild our Health and Social Care Services.

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"I know that despite the ongoing pressures, staff in oncology and haematology services across all Trusts have been working above and beyond to maintain services and to support people undergoing cancer treatment. I cannot thank you enough for that. You should be extremely proud of everything that you have achieved here."

This unique building provides welcoming, uplifting spaces that support the comfort and wellbeing of patients, from its bright terraces and local artwork, to the treatment area which offers bespoke, comfortable chemotherapy chairs and uninterrupted views from Scrabo Tower to the Castlereagh Hills.

Paul Gribbin, who received cancer care at the Ulster Hospital and was part of the project steering group overseeing the build, commented: "It's wonderful to see the Macmillan Unit open and providing care to patients and their loved ones. It has been a privilege to add my voice and experience to its development. I know from my own cancer journey how important it is to feel comfortable and able to access the help you need when you're going through treatment. This Unit is going to make a big difference to people's lives."

Janice Preston, Head of Partnerships for Macmillan in Northern Ireland, added: "Cancer can affect people's lives in many ways, physically and emotionally. We know that the environments in which people are treated are vital to their dignity and wellbeing, and can have a significant impact on the way they feel and respond to treatment. The Macmillan Unit demonstrates how innovative and considerate design, combined with people's lived experience, can shape and improve cancer care."