Picture the difference – photography competition for new cancer centre

The public is being invited to ‘picture the difference’ they could make to individuals and families affected by cancer by taking part in a photography competition for the new Macmillan Information and Support Centre at Antrim.

The Northern Trust, in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, is currently building a new £3.5 million Information and Support Centre at Antrim Area Hospital.

Due to open in spring 2027, the centre will provide improved access to practical, emotional and wellbeing support for people affected by cancer across the Northern Trust area.

It will also offer dedicated services for children and young people who have received a cancer diagnosis, as well as those supporting a parent, sibling or other family member through cancer.

The centre's design has been inspired by the natural beauty of Northern Ireland. As part of this, the public is being invited to submit images that could be displayed throughout the building, helping to create a welcoming, calming environment for patients, families and carers.

Photographs should capture one of the following themes: Lough and coast and Woodland and glens

Organisers would particularly welcome images showing these landscapes across the different seasons, highlighting the changing beauty of Northern Ireland throughout the year.

Only digital photos with a high resolution will be accepted and entries should be emailed to [email protected] before 31 December 2026.

Moyra Mills, Macmillan Service Improvement Lead, said: “A cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, not only for the person receiving treatment but also for the people who care about them. We want this new centre to be a welcoming and supportive space where people can find information, reassurance and comfort during a difficult time.

“Through this competition, local people have an opportunity to help shape that environment. A beautiful photograph can provide a moment of calm, reflection or escape when it is needed most.

“From our stunning coastline to our beautiful glens and woodlands, we would love to receive entries from across Northern Ireland and, where possible, images that capture these landscapes throughout the seasons. You don't need professional camera to take part, we’re happy to accept images taken on a smartphone – as long as they are high resolution to enable us to print them.”

Macmillan Cancer Support is investing £2.5 million towards the new Antrim Macmillan Information & Support Centre.

If you would like to support this project, you can donate through Just Giving: https://www.justgiving.com/page/antrimappeal