CRT Together Logo | Cancer Support Merthyr, RCT, Bridgend, Cwm Taf Morgannwg
A Little Ray of Light
CRT Together • 7 November 2024

Share this post

The CRT team were out in the community recently supporting our friends at Ray of Light a remarkable cancer support group offering a wide range of assistance to those impacted by cancer. We were thrilled to bring in an enthusiastic group of volunteers from the CRT team and Welsh Water to Ray of Lights fantastic venue in Abercynon, to see how we could lend a hand and enhance the space.


As part of our CRT Together initiative, collaboration is essential. In the Cwm Taf Morgannwg area alone, 3,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year, and no single organisation can support all those in need. That’s why partnerships like the one between CRT and Ray of Light are so valuable. Working together, we aim to serve the broader community in the most impactful way possible.


We had a fantastic day spent outdoors, helping to improve Ray of Light’s facilities and they have also benefited financially from our partnership, as one of the recipients of the Breaking Barriers Fund, which funded the solar panels on their roof, helping them be energy efficient for years to come.


The Ray of Light facility isn't your typical cancer support centre. It’s not just about quiet rooms and talking circles. It’s a vibrant place where people can engage in craft activities, participate in wellbeing sessions, or simply enjoy the fresh air. Ray of Light offers a refreshing and holistic approach to support, and we look forward to continuing our wonderful partnership with Sue and her team for many years to come.


To find out more about Ray of Light visit their website at: www.rayoflightwales.org.uk

by CRT Together 17 March 2025
Our Partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support At CRT, we are proud to be funded by Macmillan Cancer Support , an organisation dedicated to ensuring that everyone affected by cancer receives the help they need. As our programme continues to grow, we are reaching more individuals and families across our communities, many of whom face significant barriers when trying to access essential cancer support services. Our mission is to bridge this gap, whether it's practical assistance, financial guidance, or emotional support, we want to ensure that people in these communities know we are here to help. By working together, we can connect individuals with the vital services often already available to them, making it easier for people with cancer and their loved ones to cope without unnecessary stress or isolation. Why Macmillan has funded this project Macmillan Cancer Support chose to partner with our programme because they recognise the severe health inequalities that exist in South Wales, particularly in former mining communities. The statistics speak for themselves: Cancer incidence rates are significantly higher in these regions. Life expectancy is lower compared to the national average. Many individuals in these areas face multiple barriers when trying to access healthcare, support, and financial aid. Macmillan shares our commitment to reducing these disparities and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the cancer care they deserve. Through this partnership, we are actively working to break down obstacles, provide direct support, and create a stronger, more informed community that knows where to turn for help.  Macmillan highlights our partnership Recently, Jenny Savage, Digital Content Editor at Macmillan , wrote an article about our partnership, highlighting why this collaboration is so important in the effort to ensure that "Nobody Should Face Cancer Alone" across Wales and the wider UK. Her piece sheds light on th e unique challenges faced by individuals in our communities and how our joint efforts are h elping to provide much-needed support. 🔗 Read the full article here We are incredibly grateful for Macmillan’s continued support and look forward to expanding our impact even further in the months ahead. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—we are here for you. Together, we will make a difference. 💚
A woman with cancer is wearing a head scarf and glasses.
by CRT Together 21 February 2025
An article on a recent report from Cancer in the UK 2025: Socioeconomic Deprivation has revealed alarming statistics: cancer death rates are nearly 50% higher for people living in the most deprived areas of Wales compared to the least deprived areas. This translates to around four additional deaths every day – a stark reality that underscores the need for urgent support
by CRT Together 22 January 2025
Help Shape the Future of Lung Cancer Screening in Wales Public Health Wales is working on plans to introduce a new lung cancer screening programme in Wales, and they want to hear from you! If you: Live in Wales Are aged between 50 and 75 Are a current or former tobacco smoker ...then your input is invaluable. By completing this short survey, you can share your views and experiences to help shape how this life-saving programme is developed. The survey takes just 10 minutes to complete, and your feedback will directly contribute to improving early detection and treatment of lung cancer in Wales. Your Voice Matters - Let Us Hear it Your answers will be stored anonymously. This means Public Health Wales will not ask your name, and you will not be identified. By sharing your views, you can help shape this new service. Click the link below to take the survey. Thank you for your support. Lung Cancer Screening Survey
Share by: