Macmillan's Lounge to close its doors

Wednesday 15 November 2023

A local cancer charity's book café is set to close at the end of the month due to the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

Macmillan Jersey's The Lounge in Burrard Street combines a coffee shop with a second hand book shop, and was created as a way of engaging with the local community, providing a space for the income team and creating a further opportunity to raise funds.

The charity's CEO Steph Gibaut said that, while the facility had met most of its objectives, circumstances had changed as a result of the pandemic, resulting in difficult decisions.

Pictured: Macmillan Jersey's The Lounge in Burrard Street combines a coffee shop with a second hand book shop.

Announcing the closure, she said: "Our focus going forward will be to continue to engage with the community though outreach and fundraising events.

"Longer term, our hope is to look for another opportunity to have a space in the heart of the community.

"We would like to thank each and every customer, supplier and supporter that came to The Lounge.

"The past five years have been incredible, and we are truly grateful for all the memories.

"This isn’t a goodbye, it’s a see you soon."

Pictured: Jersey's first cancer strategy was launched earlier this month.

Ms Gibaut added that, while news of the closure might be disappointing to many, it would not deter Macmillan Jersey from providing vital support to those affected by cancer in the island.

This week the charity, embarking on a partnership with Health, launched a new service Improving the Cancer Journey Jersey which will ensure that all newly diagnosed patients are referred directly to Macmillan Jersey for a holistic needs assessment.

Ms Gibaut explained that this would lead to an individual care plan that best suits the needs of each patient and point them to relevant support in the island.

The new service is recognised in the island's first cancer strategy launched by Health Minister Karen Wilson earlier this month.