THE new home of a popular charity is set to open later this month.

Romsey Cancer Support Centre will officially open its new base on August 22.

Scores of residents and businesses have stepped in to volunteer their time and resources to help extend the new Jane Scarth House.

The charity’s move from its current site will take it to a building less than 100 feet behind it, to make it more accessible.

The current building, Jane Scarth House, is spread over two floors, with rooms for befriending, counselling and therapy.

But the new building will be on just one floor, providing more accessiblity for many of the charity’s disabled clients.

And now the charity has received £4,950 to fund an additional day a week of specialist counselling appointments.

The donation was provided by the Santander Foundation, which offers grants to UK registered charities for projects that help disadvantaged people.

Anne Campbell, centre manager at Romsey Cancer Support Centre, Jane Scarth House, said: “When a client requests our counselling services, it is so important that they are able to make an appointment and be seen quickly.

“Because of this wonderful grant, more people will be able to benefit from this valuable service.”

Jane Scarth House provides emotional support, practical help and information to those affected by cancer and their families.

All of the services are free of charge and include specialist counselling, complementary therapies, and a comprehensive information service and mindfulness or meditation practice.

The grant will be used to fund an additional day per week of specialist counselling free of charge.

The organisation’s services are in high demand and last year the centre welcomed 311 new clients.

The funds will ensure that more people can access the support.

Adam Sherman, from Santander’s Poole branch, added: “The Romsey Cancer Support Centre - Jane Scarth House is so important to my family and me, having been founded in memory of my wife’s late mum, Jane.

“Having personally met the majority of the team at the centre I can say with confidence that their passion for what they do is inspirational.

“Our branch is committed to playing a key part in the local community and we are delighted to be able to support the charity.”