November 13, 2026

People living with secondary breast cancer are being invited to attend a special coffee morning in Ballymena to find out more about a local support group.

The group, delivered in partnership by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and Breast Cancer Now, offers a welcoming and supportive space where people can connect with others who understand the challenges of living with secondary breast cancer.

The coffee morning will take place on Friday 27 November 2026 from 10.30am to 2pm at the Ballymena North Business and Recreation Centre, giving people an opportunity to learn more about the group, meet the facilitator, chat with current members and find out about future speaker sessions and activities. Guests can also enjoy refreshments, a raffle and a session from Look Good Feel Better.

Service users can bring a friend or family member for the first 30 minutes to help them settle into the group environment.

The monthly support group for people living with secondary breast cancer provides a safe and understanding environment where participants can share experiences, gain practical advice and access additional emotional support. Regular guest speakers also attend the meetings to provide additional information on relevant themes.

Alison Craig, Macmillan Palliative Care Service Improvement Facilitator in the Northern Trust, said: “Living with secondary breast cancer can bring many challenges, and support from people who understand your experience can make a real difference.

“The coffee morning is an informal opportunity to come along, meet the facilitator, learn more about the group and see if it might be right for you. We would encourage anyone living with secondary breast cancer, regardless of where they live, to join us for a chat and find out more.”

Lucy McLean, Services Area Co-ordinator for Breast Cancer Now said: “We know that many people living with secondary breast cancer can feel isolated at times. Our support groups offer understanding, friendship and practical support from others who are facing similar experiences.

“Whether you are newly diagnosed with secondary breast cancer or have been living with it for some time, we hope this coffee morning will help people discover the support available and feel reassured that they are not facing this journey alone.”

The group is open to anyone living with secondary breast cancer and people do not need to live within the Northern Trust area to attend.

Those wishing to come along to the coffee morning can either drop in on the day or register their interest via the Breast Cancer Now website at breastcancernow.org/Living-with-Ballymena or by calling 0345 077 1893.

Financial assistance with travel costs may also be available through the charity’s Access Fund.