Frome cancer counselling charity We Hear You (WHY) has launched an urgent appeal to raise £55,000 by the end of March or face closure.
WHY works across the region offering counselling not only to people living with cancer and other life-threatening conditions, but also to family members, close friends, and those who have been bereaved.
The charity has been running for over 31 years and has supported tens of thousands of people through its counselling service.
However, the organisation faces the threat of closure without immediate funding support.
Chief Executive Officer Lucy Kitchener said, “We need the community’s help now more than ever. The charity must raise £55,000 by 31 March 2026 to ensure its services can continue uninterrupted for children, young people and adults at a time of growing demand.
“Post-pandemic mental health challenges and rising cancer incidence mean more people are seeking help, often with more complex needs. Multi-year grants are ending as statutory and charitable funds tighten. WHY has worked hard to diversify income, but the current shortfall threatens our survival. Without funds, WHY faces closure, meaning fewer support options for families facing cancer and life-threatening illness.”
Lucy added, “Every week, people arrive at WHY’s door frightened, grieving and overwhelmed. For those who cannot afford to pay, WHY provides counselling free at the point of need, and only a small contribution is asked from those who can. But right now, the financial pressures on small health charities are acute. Without urgent help, WHY’s capacity to provide this lifeline is at risk.”
Last year the charity supported 453 people, with over 70% receiving counselling alongside peer support groups and workplace support. Lucy said, “Around two-thirds of those supported were adults, with the remainder children and young people.
“Counselling at WHY makes a measurable difference: adults report an average improvement in wellbeing of 46%, and children and young people 58%.”
To support the campaign, visit https://wehearyou.enthuse.com/cf/we-hear-you-needs-you
