Active Together is an evidence-based service designed to help patients in Sheffield who have upper gastrointestinal (GI), colorectal and lung cancer better withstand their treatment by providing physical activity, nutritional and psychological support before, during and after treatment.

This new approach to cancer treatment offers a combination of support for patients’ physical and mental health based on individual needs and treatment.

Dr Kathryn Scott, Chief Executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said:

“In recent years, it has become very clear that exercise plays a vital role in improving cancer survival rates, and that physical activity programmes should be prescribed to people with cancer in the same way as other treatments.

“At Yorkshire Cancer Research, our aim is for 2000 more people to survive cancer every year in Yorkshire. Together with the pioneering team at Sheffield’s Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, we are taking a huge leap into creating a world-leading programme that can be introduced across Yorkshire and beyond, helping to save many lives.”

Patients will be referred to the programme through their Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Following referral to Active Together by their Clinical Nurse Specialist, patients will be invited to a private appointment at the AWRC where members of the team will work with them to establish the best way to provide help and support over the coming weeks.

Together they will develop a bespoke plan which may include physical activity, nutrition and psychological wellbeing support.

Throughout each patient’s cancer treatment, the Active Together team will be there to offer phone and email support and will work with the patient to adapt and develop their plan, based on how they are finding their treatment.

Following treatment, patients will be invited to a follow up appointment to catch up with the Active Together team and consider how they can best support each individual patient moving forwards.