In 1990, Professor Charles Forbes of the Department of Medicine at Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, in Dundee, initiated the formation of a Cancer Support Group in the city.  Professor Forbes was very aware of the lack of support for cancer patients, their families, and friends, and for professionals working in the field of cancer care. He felt that though patients received the best of care while in hospital ongoing support after discharge was not readily available.

The group was initially affiliated to Tak Tent Cancer Support Scotland (Tak Tent is an old Scots phrase meaning Take care). However, two years later the Dundee group withdrew from the national organisation and, in July 1994, was inaugurated as Tayside Area Cancer Support (TACS) and obtained charitable status. At this time the group ran mainly as a support group with monthly meetings offering an opportunity for like-minded people to get together and share experiences and practical help. There was also an opportunity forinvited speakers to provide more formal knowledge when appropriate.

In January 2003 the organisation changed its name to Tayside Cancer Support but the core objectives remained the same. To relieve suffering, distress and further the health of those people who either have suffered from or are suffering from cancer, their families, and friends, and to promote the welfare of staff involved professionally in cancer care. The charity now offered a one-to-one confidential listening service, provided by highly trained volunteers.

Over the years since then the charity has diversified and though befriending is still a core service, we also now offer counselling, alternative therapies, and hospital visits.  Our monthly drop in café has recently been paused while we reassess how this is provided.