A lymphoedema clinic hosted at an Oxfordshire charity has closed its doors to new referrals after funding was cut.
The Hummingbird Centre was commissioned by Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board to run the clinic for people who had been diagnosed with cancer-related Lymphoedema at its premises in Launton, near Bicester,
But the funding has not been renewed, and the charity say it has taken the “disappointing” decision to close the clinic to new patients.
Zoe Draper, Centre Manager, would like to reassure current patients that they will continue to receive care and support until the end of their treatment plan.
She said: “We are so disappointed the funding has not been forthcoming, but we want to reassure existing registered patients that they will continue to receive ongoing care and support throughout this transition.
“While we will no longer be accepting new referrals, all current patients will remain under our care and will continue to be seen as needed. This change is intended to manage future referrals only and should not cause concern for those already registered with the service.”
Since the clinic was set up in summer 2024, the team has treated almost 1,000 people from across the three counties, who were referred by their GP or clinician.
Lymphoedema is a long-term condition that causes swelling when the body’s lymphatic system is unable to drain fluid properly. While there is no cure, symptoms can often be effectively managed with specialist treatment.
The Hummingbird Centre Founder Mechelle Harris said: “All other services at the centre will continue as normal. We are looking at all options to try and maintain some form of lymphoedema support. This includes applying for grants and reviewing whether it can be offered as part of the complementary therapies that we provide. We do know there’s a massive need for this clinic.”
For more information or to speak to The hummingbird Centre, please email info@thehummingbirdcentre.org.uk or call 01869 244244.