Tenovus Cancer Care has launched a new volunteer-led ‘Tele-Friends’ service to combat loneliness among cancer patients during the coronavirus crisis.

A number of cancer survivors have registered to join the programme, which will see volunteers make regular phone or video calls to those affected by cancer who may be experiencing loneliness during self-isolation.

One of those to offer help is Laura Morris-Lloyd, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma after discovering a lump in her neck at the age of 19.

Laura, from Caerphilly, said: “As part of my cancer treatment more than 30 years ago I had my spleen removed.

“This affected my immune system and I was one of the thousands of individuals who received the Government letter to isolate for 12 weeks.

“Initially I felt extremely frustrated. I was unable to join the many volunteers to go to the shop or do other jobs for the vulnerable.

“When Tenovus Cancer Care asked for volunteers to be tele-friends, I jumped at the opportunity to help others who were feeling alone, needed a chat or just someone to listen. I am grateful for the opportunity to do something worthwhile.”

Jenny Gregory, from Cwmbran, has been a member of Tenovus Cancer Care’s Cwmbran Sing with Us choir for seven years.

“I’ve experienced first-hand the many far-reaching benefits of togetherness,” said Jenny. “It’s wonderful that at a time when we can’t be physically together, Tenovus Cancer Care is still finding ways to help people feel less alone. It is a frightening time for anyone affected by cancer, so it’s more important than ever to do everything we can to give hope and help people cope.”

Gill Morton, from Deganwy in North Wales, said: “I have been volunteering for Tenovus Cancer Care for nearly six years in many different ways and wanted to give something back to a charity that has given me so much.

“The life we are all living now due to coronavirus, with lockdown and social distancing and restrictions, is so very different to what we are used to. I am so lucky I have family and friends, and we regularly keep in touch during this difficult time.

“I am also aware there are people out there Tenovus Cancer Care supports who may feel lonely and isolated. From experience, looking forward to hearing a friendly voice and having a chat to someone who has the same interests can make a huge difference to your day, your wellbeing and give you a boost.

“I am a Welsh speaker. First language Welsh speakers are better able and prefer to communicate in their chosen language. It’s great to be a volunteer who can offer this, and people may feel more relaxed and happier knowing that they can access the service in Welsh.”

Tenovus Cancer Care hopes to help many people living with cancer through the service and is urging anyone who feels they would benefit to sign-up via its website.

Rebecca Dabill, Volunteer Manager at Tenovus Cancer Care, said: “We’ve had an excellent response from people offering their time to support cancer patients and their loved ones with regular calls.

“Getting a cancer diagnosis is a very worrying time for people and being away from friends and family while in isolation can increase a person’s anxiety.

“We know cancer patients need our support more than ever and we’re determined to help as many people as we can.”