The idea
One in 2 of us will receive a cancer diagnosis in our lifetime. In Sussex that equates currently to over 100,000 people living with and beyond cancer. Increases in physical activity have been shown to deliver transformational change in mental and physical health outcomes for cancer patients. We want to create a safe space where cancer patients, their friends and carers can come and enjoy water based exercise supported by a team of specialist trainers. Since opening the UKs first cancer gym in 2015 we have helped over 800 local cancer patients during their treatment and recovery. We already have an outdoor pool but it needs placing under cover and adding toilets, changing and spectator space. This is a pioneering project for local cancer patients and their families and will have the secondary benefit of delivering a positive impact on interrelated local services- most especially health and social care. Cancer United are a small local charity supporting all those affected by cancer.
What we'll deliver
- Create the UKs first dedicated swimming pool for cancer patients and cancer survivors
- Help cancer patients rehabilitate in the water supported by a specialist team of cancer exercise professionals
- Pioneer the benefits of exercise in the water for local cancer patients
Why it's a great idea
Many of our cancer patients patrons who come to exercise in the gym would dearly love to be able to engage in aqua exercise/swim based rehabilitation. Cancer patients are often prevented from using public pools when undergoing cancer treatments for many reasons – hygiene standards, insurance requirements for operators or simply because they do not want to be seen in public baths when they have physical disfigurements, no hair etc. Many of the common cancer treatments produce side effects which such as neuropathy which make balance a problem. This poses difficulties for those wishing to exercise in the gym or engage in other types of exercise. This project constitutes the perfect addition to our existing gym based cancer exercise initiative. Local cancer patients will be able to also enjoy water based exercise during cancer treatment and recovery supported by an expert team. By having the pool under cover this can happen all year round and in all weathers with friends, family and carers
Steps to get it done
- Preparing the groundworks
- Building the basic structure
- Creating toilets and changing facilities
- Installing heating and lighting
- Making good to external access areas
Research has found that 75% of Sussex cancer patients reporting symptoms of depression were not receiving treatment. Macmillan research identifies a dearth of real provision locally. We need to expand and grow the existing services we provide to meet local need for them. Physical activity has been proven to improve mental and physical health outcomes for cancer patients. Our initiative CU Fitter is proven to deliver improved health outcomes for local cancer patients.
