The successful pilot of an activity scheme for cancer patients in Thurrock has resulted in the launch of a new programme covering Basildon, Brentwood and Thurrock
Charitable organisation Impulse Leisure, whose goals are to help the local community get active and healthy, has supported over 48 Cancer patients to improve their activity levels in a successful pilot scheme.
The programme was tested at Blackshots Centre in Thurrock and has already supported over 48 patients to improve their activity levels. Four 12-week programmes saw participants take part in twice-weekly sessions, including aerobics, gym sessions and regular light exercise.
Results showed that 75% of patients who took part in the pilot scheme moved from being inactive to fairly active, with others benefited from the social element as well as improving their mental and emotional wellbeing.
According to Macmillan, taking part in physical activity during or after being treated for cancer can help reduce tiredness and treatment side effects, strengthen muscles and improve quality of life.
Harjinder, aged 60 from Grays, was referred to the programme by her GP consultant following breast surgery, which left her with limited movement in both of her arms.
Since taking part in the sessions she has completing changed her lifestyle and outlook. She now attends the gym as much as four times a week and places a much greater importance on physical activity as part of her daily lifestyle.
Harjinder said:
“Before being diagnosed with breast cancer, my busy lifestyle didn’t allow me the time to take part in much physical activity. Following surgery, the activity sessions have not just helped with movement, but have helped me feel stronger, both mentally and physically.”
Following the successful impact of the pilot, sporting and health organisations across the county have come together to extend the programme to support over 200 cancer patients and help them live healthier, more active lifestyles. The new programme will see twice-weekly sessions run at four locations across Basildon, Brentwood and Thurrock, including; Impulse Leisure Blackshots, The Gym Hub Wickford, and The Brentwood Centre.
Gary Tapsell, Group & Health Fitness Manager, at Impulse Leisure, said:
‘The initial pilot had taught us a lot about the specific needs and abilities of the patients, as well as showing the positive impact the sessions were making. It was clear to us that this programme needed to be more readily available across Greater Essex, and with the help of Active Essex and other community partners, we have been able to facilitate this.’
The Active for Life programme, led by sporting charity Impulse Leisure, will provide cancer patients of all stages from diagnosis to remission, with a range of positive activities to help improve their fitness. The highly-trained staff involved with the programme will create personalised activity plans, adapted to suit the needs and abilities of each individual.
Active Essex, the county sports partnership for Greater Essex, was amongst one of the organisations involved, and supported the project by signposting funding opportunities to expand the programme.
Juliette Raison, Active Essex South West Essex relationship manager, and thematic lead for Core Market, said:
“We’re very pleased to have supported the Active for Life project and to have helped signpost sufficient funding to get the programme running in Basildon and Brentwood.’
Cancer patients who are interested in taking part in the activity sessions, are advised to speak to their consultant, Clinical Nurse Specialist or GP for a referral to the service.