SINCE opening in 2010, The Pink Place has been offering women with cancer a range of therapies and services away from hospital. 

In the six years the centre in Wote Street has been open, more than 300 people have benefited from free hair services, massage, reflexology, counselling and beauty services – all aimed at improving their sense of well-being and reducing isolation and stress.

Now, the charity has branched out even further, expanding its services to support men with cancer through a series of evening sessions.

The Blue Space was officially opened by mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Cllr Jane Frankum, with guests including Andrew Bishop, chief medical officer at the North Hampshire NHS Trust. 

Manager of The Pink Place and The Blue Space Kay Alsop said: “What is important for us now is to raise awareness and let men know we offer this service. 

“We wanted to branch out because it quickly became apparent that there were people with other cancers who need the same support.” 

The Blue Space aims to support men with cancer through evening sessions combining themed evenings with information, support and relaxation. 

It has already started a monthly Tuesday evening self-help group for men whose wives/loved ones are going through cancer treatment. 

Kay said: “We have already been in talks with some local businesses about helping set up some of the themed evenings. Owen Mitchell solicitors have kindly said they will help provide a curry night for the men who come and use the service.” 

She added: “We found that evenings work best for men, as they tend to carry on working as much as they can so we wanted to create something that worked for them in a relaxed manner.” 

Other ideas include beer tasting, pub games, quiz nights, – all with an expert to provide information and answer questions on topics like nutrition, legal advice and financial advice. 

To find out more about The Blue Space and the session it is set to offer, visit thepinkplace.org.uk/pink-place-sessions/blue-space.