Oxfordshire lymphoedema clinic halts new patients after cuts

The service, which operated from The Hummingbird Centre in Launton, near Bicester, supported individuals diagnosed with cancer-related lymphoedema across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West.

The clinic was run by the Oxfordshire charity under a commission from the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board.

However, with funding no longer renewed, the organisation has described the decision to stop accepting new referrals as “disappointing.”

Centre manager Zoe Draper reassured existing patients that their care will not be affected.

She said: “We are so disappointed the funding has not been forthcoming, but we want to reassure existing registered patients that they will continue to receive ongoing care and support throughout this transition.

“While we will no longer be accepting new referrals, all current patients will remain under our care and will continue to be seen as needed.”

Since opening in summer 2024, the clinic has treated nearly 1,000 patients referred by GPs and clinicians across the region.

Founder of The Hummingbird Centre in Bicester, Mechelle Harris, and centre manager Zoe Draper (Image: The Hummingbird Centre)

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling due to a failure in the lymphatic system’s ability to drain fluid effectively. Although incurable, it can often be managed successfully with specialist care.

Founder Mechelle Harris said the charity is now exploring alternative ways to continue offering support, including applying for grants and integrating the service into its complementary therapy provision, noting there remains significant demand.