Ayrshire wide programme launches to help cancer patients Move More.
A new programme to help people across North Ayrshire who are affected by cancer become more active has launched today (Wednesday 23rd January 2019) in Kilmarnock.
In partnership with KA Leisure, Move More North Ayrshire has been specifically designed for people affected by cancer and includes circuit-based activity classes, gentle movement classes, walking and gardening. Activities are supported by a team of enthusiastic local volunteers who are instrumental to the programme. Participants will be able to access support from a highly trained team. Similar Move More programmes have been successfully rolled out in several areas across Scotland from Aberdeenshire to the Borders.
Traditionally, cancer patients have been told to rest and put their feet up, however Macmillan Cancer Support has completed various pieces of research which shows that being active during and after treatment can maintain physical function, improve feeling of mental wellbeing as well as minimising the side effects of treatment.
The activities, will not only help people cope with the side effects of treatment, but also provide people with an opportunity to meet others in a similar situation and reduce the loneliness and isolation that the disease can create for those affected.
Macmillan Strategic Partnership Manager, Joanne Adamson said:
“Traditionally people have been told that rest was best, and while it is right to rest at certain times, it is also really beneficial to get moving too. Research shows that being active during and after treatment can not only help with the side effects but also reduce loneliness and isolation many people feel.
“Many people may feel nervous about building up their activity levels, particularly if it’s for the first time after treatment or if they haven’t been very active for a while, which is why Macmillan is working with KA Leisure to provide Move More North Ayrshire specifically for local people affected by cancer.”
KA Leisure Business Manager, Laura Barrie said:
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support to help people become more active following a cancer diagnosis. Move More North Ayrshire provides additional skill and knowledge to our Active North Ayrshire Team to allow people to get the best advice and support for them even if they have multiple medical conditions. We are confident the project is going to be a huge success”
For support getting into or back into physical activity you can visit www.macmillan.org.uk/movemore and request an information pack or call our support line on 0808 808 0000.
