A cancer support charity in Enniskillen has received funding from the Department of Health’s Cancer Charities Grant Scheme. SWELL, supported by Macmillan Cancer Support, plans to expand operations for the 2026/27 project year. The grant enables delivery of 1,462 support sessions to more than 550 clients across Fermanagh.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt announced the funding. SWELL will add a new counsellor to existing staff Roley McIntyre and Dr Theresa Cleary. This supports 405 counselling sessions to cut waiting times.

The programme covers complementary therapies including reflexology, lymphatic drainage, and massage. It also includes equine therapy, play therapy, and at-home palliative care. Nature-based activities feature outdoor wellbeing sessions, arts and crafts, and blue space therapy on local waters.

Financial advocacy comes via partnership with Community Advice Fermanagh. SWELL founder and chief executive Genevieve Irvine BEM started the charity in 2018. She called the grant an investment in Fermanagh residents facing cancer.

The scheme aids 16 cancer charities across Northern Ireland. Minister Nesbitt visited Evora Hospice and noted the co-design process with the Northern Ireland Cancer Charities Coalition. He stressed moving care closer to homes and community partnerships with HSC staff.