VOLUNTEERS are needed to help at Cardigan’s Oxygen Therapy Centre.

The charitable-run centre based at the town’s Pentood Industrial Estate is one of many organisations that have been hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

The centre, which has been open during much of lockdown as it is classed as an essential medical service, is operating on a pared-back basis for single person-only sessions, with strict safety and cleaning protocols in place.

Previously, up to five people at any one time could make use of the facility.

“The most important thing is keeping people safe as we are dealing with some of the most vulnerable people and we have to be doubly careful,” said centre manager Gina Fox.

“We cannot take on any new clients but we are managing to treat those who need to be treated.”

However, with many of the centre’s volunteers shielding, therevis a need for extra pairs of hands to help out.

“We follow strict Covid-19 regulations and training would be given. We would be very grateful for anyone who could spare a couple hours every week,” added Gina.

The centre needs to raise a minimum of £40,000 a year to carry on operating and the town has rallied around in the past 12 months with a string of fund-raising events to ensure its survival.

But the effects of the coronavirus pandemic has meant it has still been a struggle as it does not qualify for local council or Welsh Government grants as it does not charge for its services, instead asking only for donations if the patient can afford to do so.

For further information about the centre and to inquire about volunteering, contact Gina on 01239 613210.

• Cardigan Oxygen Therapy Centre was set up 17 years ago by a group of local people who raised around £120,000 to save the need to travel to Swansea for treatment.

• It was mainly used to treat people with MS at first but is suitable for a host of chronic illnesses such as Motor Neurone Disease, cancer, fibromyalgia, autism, as well as fractures and tissue damage.

• Medical oxygen is breathed in under pressure and dissolves into the blood stream and tissues to promote healing.

• The centre – one of only three in Wales - is run entirely on charitable donations, fund-raising efforts and donations from people who use the service.