New programme at Carlisle United supports cancer patients with exercise and social sessions
A collaborative initiative aims to improve wellbeing during cancer treatment
Carlisle United Community Sports Trust is hosting a new programme designed to support individuals living with cancer by providing tailored exercise sessions combined with social and emotional support.
The Versus Cancer programme, a partnership between the English Football League (EFL), the Northern Cancer Alliance, football club charities, and NHS hospital trusts, aims to optimise patients' physical and mental wellbeing in community settings across the North East and North Cumbria.
At Carlisle, free weekly sessions are held every Tuesday at the club's East Stand classrooms, Brunton Park. The prehabilitation and rehabilitation activities began on 25th August 2023 and will run for a year, under the guidance of NCIC.
Improving Physical and Mental Wellbeing
Research indicates that patients in better physical condition can handle cancer treatment challenges more effectively. By enhancing fitness levels, participants can undergo treatment and surgery with greater resilience and potentially reduce recovery time.
Bringing Support Closer to Home
Designed to integrate with the National Cancer Plan's vision, the programme moves care and support closer to people's homes by offering accessible prehabilitation and rehabilitation in community locations.
The social component of Versus Cancer is central to reducing isolation, allowing individuals to share experiences and connect with others undergoing similar situations.
Community Engagement in Action
The sessions are delivered not only in Carlisle but also across Middlesbrough, Sunderland, and Newcastle, in collaboration with eight hospital trusts in the region.