Small acts of kindness being big comfort for cancer patients this World Cancer Day

This World Cancer Day, Wednesday 4th February, a powerful example of community compassion is making a real difference for people facing one of the toughest days of their lives, their first chemotherapy appointment.

A Tameside-based uniform supplier dedicated local volunteers, and a much-loved British sweet maker have joined forces to create thoughtful support bags for patients receiving cancer treatment at Tameside & Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust.

At the heart of the initiative is Tibard Uniforms, based on Globe Lane Industrial Estate in Dukinfield. Using rolls of unused and discontinued fabric, the company has lovingly produced 400 bespoke fabric support bags designed especially for people undergoing cancer treatment. The collection includes 150 pamper bags, 150 cosmetic bags and 100 men’s bags, each one bright, practical and made to be reused long after hospital visits are over.

What makes the project even more special is the care stitched into every detail. Tibard staff volunteered their own time to design and sew the bags, adding personal touches such as delicate love heart stitching. The women’s bags feature uplifting pastel shades and floral patterns, complete with a matching zip pouch, while the men’s bags have a simple grey and blue stripe for a more understated, classic look.

Jennifer Hunt, Garment Technologist at Tibard Uniforms, said the aim was to combine kindness with practicality.

“We wanted to create something that felt kind, practical and respectful for people going through cancer treatment. From the first design ideas to our machinists adding the finishing touches, this has been a real team effort, and we hope the bags bring a bit of comfort to those receiving them.”

The bags are being filled with essential comfort items thanks to months of fundraising by Mossley Cancer Committee. Their efforts have helped provide toiletries, hand creams and lip balms, alongside other small but meaningful items that can make a difficult day feel just a little more manageable.

Adding a touch of sweetness, New Mills-based Swizzels has donated hundreds of packets of Love Hearts and Drumstick Squashies, giving each patient a familiar treat to brighten a challenging moment.

Emily Whelan, Charity Manager at Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity, praised the teamwork behind the project.

“We are incredibly proud to see local businesses and community groups coming together to make such a big impact for our patients living with cancer. This project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when people work together with kindness at the heart of it and we know these bags will mean a great deal to patients at a very difficult time.”

The support bags will be distributed through Macmillan services at Tameside Hospital.