North West law firm, Farleys Solicitors, has made a grant to a Blackpool-based specialist head and neck cancer charity, to support its specialist work across the country.
The Swallows Head and Neck Cancer Support Charity is a nationwide charity which supports all people affected by head and neck cancer, including patients, caregivers, friends and relatives.
Like many charities, The Swallows’ usual fundraising schedule has been decimated by the coronavirus pandemic, while the demand for their services has increased. 2020 saw a drastic reduction in suspected head and neck cancer referrals compared to 2019 figures, largely as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic as resource was ploughed into the treatment of COVID-19 patients. However, if this continues, it could have a devastating effect on five-year survival rates and potentially lead to hundreds of extra deaths.
Support from charities such as The Swallows is therefore even more essential at this current time, both through its campaigns to raise awareness of head and neck cancers, and also support for anyone facing the cancer journey
The grant from Farleys made through the firm’s charitable foundation The Farleys Foundation, will fund the head and neck cancer patient support boxes which contain vital supplies which help with the side effects of the cancer and treatment.
Chris Curtis, Chief Executive Officer, and cancer survivor of The Swallows commented:
This grant is such a wonderful gesture and will enable us to continue to support the most vulnerable Head & Neck Cancer patients that are at home and isolating with one of the Support Boxes, these contain items to help with the side effects of the brutal treatment our patients go through. Fundraising in this COVID-19 pandemic is having a massive impact on our charity so a grant from Farleys Solicitors is a big boost thank you and we welcome you as a Friend of the Swallows.
Holly Barnes, Solicitor at of Farleys Solicitors added:
“A cancer diagnosis can be devastating and even more challenging to deal with during the restrictions caused by the pandemic. The team at The Swallows are doing great work continuing to provide vital support to patients and their loved ones. We are delighted to have been able to give this grant and become a Friend of The Swallows.”
The Swallows run their own podcast which follows the journey of Paul who is going through treatment for head and neck cancer. In episode 13, Paul mentions how the items in his patient support box have helped. Have a listen here.
The Farleys Foundation (Charity number: 1179765) is a charity set up by Farleys Solicitors to support local charities and causes. To find out more, please visit our dedicated page.
