One of Sunderland’s largest employers has encouraged its staff to learn more about prostate cancer, with help from charity volunteers.
Hundreds of staff at EDF Energy’s Customer Service Centre at Doxford International, took part in educational sessions delivered on site by Prostate Cancer UK volunteers, as part of a site-wide awareness day.
The Prostate Cancer UK volunteers held briefings for staff which covered topics such as symptoms, risks and treatment of prostate cancer. In addition, they hosted a display stand which provided staff with information leaflets and the opportunity to ask further questions.
EDF Energy regularly hosts events for breast cancer awareness and felt it was appropriate to have an event that focused on something that impacts 1 in 8 men within the UK at some point in their lives.
Team Manager Lisa Sidney, who helped organise the day said: “Cancer can be a hard topic to talk about and we’re always looking for ways to raise awareness and start conversations.
“It’s really important that we actively open up discussions and educate staff on all forms of cancer, as the information delivered at our awareness days has the potential to save lives.”
Kevin Gatens, Head of EDF Energy Customer Service North East said: “I’m really grateful to the Prostate Cancer UK volunteers who came to help educate our staff and to those who organised the awareness day.
“Hundreds of staff pass through our reception every day, so having an information stand there is an excellent way to reach and engage people.”
Prostate Cancer UK aim to raise awareness, whilst funding lifesaving research projects. They also offer support and advice to men who have been diagnosed with and are recovering from prostate cancer.