Community groups celebrate success at ‘Talk Cancer’ event

Tameside community groups have come together to celebrate their achievements at a recent event, highlighting their work to help people recognise cancer symptoms and seek medical advice sooner. They also promote understanding of screening programmes and encourage body awareness.

The ‘Talk Cancer’ celebration event, organised by Tameside Council and held on Thursday 1 May, at 4C Community Centre in Ashton, showcased the hard work and creativity of seven community groups. The groups successfully secured funding for a variety of impactful projects, including art initiatives, events, and promotions at local football grounds.

Local community groups have received nearly £20,000 from Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance to educate the community about cancer symptoms and promote body awareness.

This funding also aims to help individuals overcome emotional and psychological barriers to seeking help, to reduce health inequality and encourage more people to get the referrals they need.

Attendees included people working in cancer care in Tameside, community group members and the local residents. The event:

• Celebrated the diverse projects undertaken by community groups and their impact
• Shared cancer and screening information with the general public
• Built relationships between community groups, organisations, and Tameside Council

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “Cancer affects so many lives, and raising awareness can truly save them. I’m incredibly proud of the dedication our community groups have shown in breaking down barriers and spreading vital knowledge about early symptoms and screening. Their work is not only inspiring—it’s lifesaving.  

“Hosting this event is a powerful reminder that by working together, we can create a healthier, more informed community where everyone feels empowered to take charge of their health and seek help early.”

Anyone with potential cancer symptoms should make an appointment with their GP as soon as possible.