HELP is at hand for cancer patients this Christmas as one charity is offering a wide range of support services.

CancerCare, which has a base on Blackhall Road, Kendal, has a wide range of free, professional services such as counselling, dedicated support groups and complementary therapies.

Alison Dixey, head of client services and development at CancerCare, said: "Christmas is usually a really busy time for many of us with loads of parties and family get togethers lined up. But if you have cancer or are having cancer treatment you might not feel up to it. It can also be a really stressful time for other family members too.

"To help, CancerCare's Therapy team have put together some useful information on our website including their Top 10 Coping Tips as well as other practical sources of support. And remember, if you need to talk to someone give us a call – our experienced team are here for you."

The charity has been helping people cope with cancer for the last 30 years and, as they also have another base on Slyne Road in Lancaster, it provides outreach services to local hospitals, such as Westmorland General.

Susie Bates, from Kendal, is a former CancerCare client.

She said: "CancerCare is there for you and your family at one of the most difficult times of your life. I have benefited hugely by being a member of this special family.

"There are times in our lives when we need all the extra love and support we can get! Being told you have cancer is certainly one of those times.

"CancerCare is a safe and understanding haven for anyone going through a difficult time. All you need to do is give them a call."

Contact CancerCare on 01524 381 820 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm), email tct@cancercare.org.uk or visit www.cancercare.org.uk for more information.

Alternatively, follow them on Twitter @CancerCareLocal or on Facebook at ‘CancerCareCharity’.

Coping With Cancer at Christmas: CancerCare Top Tips

1. Plan in advance - consider in advance what you want to do. Decide whether you want to do something different this year, follow the same routine as usual, or simply not plan until nearer the time. Say what your preference is and don’t feel guilty!

2. Keep talking - people around you who are well might want something different to you. Keep talking and you might be able to accommodate what everyone wants over a few days.

3. Stick to a routine - Eating and sleeping well is important to maintain your health. Most of us overindulge a bit at Christmas time but try not to overdo it. Try to stick to some sort of routine.

4. Go for a Walk - exercise is good for improving our mood. If you feel a bit fed up something as simple as going for a short walk can do you the world of good!

5. Pace yourself - rest is important for our body to repair itself. Christmas is often a busy time and can be very tiring so pace yourself. Don’t feel embarrassed if you need a mid-morning or mid-afternoon nap.

6. Check medication supply - if you are taking medication then make sure in advance that you have enough to get you through the holiday period.

7. Find out the date of any test results - waiting for test results can be a stressful time so if you have had tests done before Christmas ask when you will get the results. Knowing when you will get them may make waiting easier to cope with.

8. Have support in place - plan ahead: who you will contact if you are feeling low? Is there a friend or a family member that you can talk to? If not then there are a number of support lines open over the holidays.

9. The Samaritans: 116 123 (open 365 days a year 24 hours day)

10. Cancer Research UK nurses: 0808 800 4040

11. The Compassionate Friends National Helpline: 0845 123 2304 (open during the Christmas period 10am – 4pm, 7pm- 10pm every day)

12. Treat yourself – you deserve it!

13. Don’t be afraid to say no - its ok to say ‘No, I’m not up to that’