young people who fall victim to the disease, the changes may not be for the better. That is where a beautiful listed building in Bexley is helping. LINDA PIPER reports ...

Young people with cancer can become isolated from friends and family during treatment, lose confidence and the ability to socialise.

They may also have lost out on educational opportunities and feel they have been left behind by their contemporaries who are out in the world earning their living and enjoying life.

Malcolm Sargent House, in Loring Hall, North Cray, is a unique project run by the Sargent Cancer Care for Children charity.

It is a residential centre for young people aged between 13 and 21 from all over the UK and Ireland who are recovering from cancer.

It provides supportive surroundings where they can relearn social skills, and get ready to live their lives how they want.

When they arrive, they don't know each other but they are encouraged to keep in touch when they leave, to give each other on-going support and friendship. They can also bring a friend or a brother or sister with them for support when they come to the house.

"The centre is not just good for young people who have had cancer, it helps those whose lives have been touched by cancer as well," said centre manager Tim Mason. "It gives them a more positive image of people who have had cancer."

The group of young people at the house last week have been there for a month. Others may come only for a few days or a weekend. They can go there as many times as they need.

"But we don't allow it to become a crutch. It is here to enable them to make their own lives in their own communities," explained Tim.

For Gary, 21, on his second visit from his home in Glasgow, the house has helped him rediscover his self confidence.

"From 1991, when I became ill, until last year, I never left my house unless it was necessary. It was a lack of self confidence. I thought people would laugh at me or call me fat," he said

During the last month, he has been doing work experience at nearby Sidcup Hill Primary School and loved it.

Royston, 19, comes from Leicester and he has visited the house nine times. At first he spoke to no one and wouldn't even make eye contact.

"I'm a lot better speaking in front of people now. Last year, I wouldn't have dreamt of it," said Royston.

He is now making plans to get a job, learn to drive and live independently from his parents.

John, 19, from Liverpool is not a cancer sufferer. He came to the house several times to gain qualifications. He now gives support to other young people in his home city.

Luke, 17, from Hastings has now joined the Youth Involvement Programme helping other young people.

The house encourages the local community to visit and would love more local young people to become volunteers helping with projects or in the garden.

The house, which opened nearly a year ago, costs £500,000 a year to run all from donations. Lots of companies, national and local, as well as clubs and schools and churches have become involved.

If you would like to know more, call the house on 020 8308 7402.

November 29, 2001 17:00