We held our AGM on Monday 15th September at 7pm here at the WICCI Offices in Stornoway, and online for those unable to attend in person.
Here are the papers for the AGM including
A Year of Impact: WICCI’s 2024 Annual Report
Key Highlights from 2024
- Social Fund: WICCI distributed £92,750 through its social fund, with 197 applications received. The most common reasons for grant requests were costs related to mainland treatment and fuel poverty. Since its launch in 2017, the fund has provided £520,453 to 1,011 individuals across the Western Isles.
- Therapeutic Support: The organization provided 471 complementary therapies and over 150 counselling sessions. Funding for these services was supported by donations and the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund.
- Wig Fitting Service: WICCI facilitated 39 private wig fitting appointments with trained local hairdressers.
- Support Groups: Several support groups met regularly at the WICCI Centre, including the Stoma Support Group, Ladies Cancer Support Group, and Hebridean Harmony, a singing for pleasure group.
- Care Boxes: WICCI delivered 21 personalised care boxes, thoughtfully prepared with useful items for each recipient.
Staff and Service Developments
In 2024, Caroline Maciver took over the manager position from Helen Sandison, who had been with WICCI since its inception. WICCI also expanded its team with the addition of two new Link Workers, Aoife Macrae and Sandra Mackinnon, as part of the new “Improving the Cancer Journey” project for the Western Isles. Norah Macphee also joined the team as a coordinator for Lewis and Harris.
Deirdre Steele, the Uist and Barra WICCI coordinator, increased her working hours to 20 per week to support individuals affected by cancer in her area. Her work has been vital in developing non-clinical cancer support services and organizing support groups, which has helped reduce isolation and improve the well-being of many individuals and families.
Strong Partnerships
WICCI’s work is strengthened by its partnerships with the Macmillan Nursing Team and the Macmillan Benefits Service. This collaboration creates a comprehensive support system that addresses the clinical, emotional, practical, and financial needs of people with cancer. These partnerships ensure that patients receive seamless, coordinated care throughout their journey.
This summary provides a glimpse into the vital work WICCI accomplished in 2024, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the community. You can find more details in the full annual report.
Client Testimonials Highlighting Support
Feedback from clients illustrates the profound impact of WICCI’s services on their lives.
- Clients expressed gratitude for the emotional and practical support received during difficult times.
- Many highlighted the importance of the Care Boxes and complementary therapies in their recovery journey.
- Testimonials emphasized the compassionate and attentive nature of WICCI staff.
Acknowledgments and Community Support
WICCI expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing support and fundraising efforts.
- Special thanks to the Lewis and Harris Macmillan Fundraising Group for their significant contributions.
- Recognition of local volunteers and organizations that support WICCI’s mission.
- Emphasis on the importance of community engagement in sustaining WICCI’s services.
