Information and Support

5K your way aims to encourage those living with and beyond cancer (and others) to walk, jog, run or volunteer at a local parkrun event. Check their website to see if there is a 5k Your Way near you.

Website: www.moveagainstcancer.org/5k-your-way/

Closer to Home offers free short Health Walks every day, in locations around Stoke-on-Trent.  The walks are led by trained walk leaders; they are friendly and fun and try to cater for all abilities.

·         Telephone: 01782 833213

·         Email: winterbottomsue@gmail.com

·         Website: http://www.closertohomewalks.org.uk/

Move Against Cancer is a growing community of people who believe passionately in the power of movement for those living with and beyond cancer. They provide useful resources to get started with exercise and run a programme for 13- to 30-year-olds.

For general inquiries, use the info email address

·         Email:  info@movecharity.org

·         Website:  www.moveagainstcancer.org

The Ramblers organise Wellbeing-Walks to make it easier to start walking and stay active. Check the website to find a group near you.

·         Telephone:  020 3961 3232

·         Email:  ramblers@ramblers.zendesk.comi

·         Website: www.ramblers.org.uk

Cancer Care Map is a simple, online resource that aims to help you find cancer support services in your local area wherever you are in the UK

·         Website: www.cancercaremap.org

Staffordshire Connects is a website with an online directory which connects you to help and support in your local community. It is easy to use and can offer details of care and support services, befriending groups, organisations, local activities, events, clubs and community groups.

·         Telephone: 0300 303 0621

·         Email: staffordshire.connects@staffordshire.gov.uk

·         Website: www.staffordshireconnects.info

·         Telephone:  01782 234234

·         Website:  www.stoke.gov.uk

·         Telephone:  0300 111 8000

·         Email:  contactus@staffordshire.gov.uk

·         Website:  www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Homepage.aspx

Penny Brohn UK is a cancer health and wellness charity that supports adults with cancer, regardless of their form. With over 40 years of experience, they offer resources and support to manage cancer and improve quality of life. Penny Brohn services are free, accessible through an online registration process or client support.

·         Telephone: 0303 3000 118

·         Email: clientsupport@pennybrohn.org.uk

·         Website: www.pennybrohn.org.uk

Free helpline that gives people direct access to Oncology Specialist Dietitians, who can answer questions and provide support. Available Tuesday 12 –2pm and Thursday 6 –8pm.

World Cancer Research Fund examine how diet, weight and physical activity can affect your risk of developing and surviving cancer.

·         Nutrition Helpline number: 0300 102 2523 (free from all mobile phones and landlines)

General number: 020 7343 4200

·         Email: helpline@wcrf.org

·         Website: www.wcrf.org

Trekstock is a cancer charity that was set up to provide tailored support for younger people with a cancer diagnosis, focusing on the age range of 20 to 40 years old, including support on nutrition.

·         Telephone: 020 4541 7601

·         Email: hello@trekstock.com

·         Website: www.trekstock.com

CNHC is a regulator of complementary healthcare practitioners which provides a voluntary register of complementary therapists. The key purpose of CNHC is to act in the public interest and enable proper public accountability of the complementary therapists that it registers. By choosing complementary healthcare practitioners registered with CNHC you can be confident that they are properly qualified and insured and have chosen to make themselves accountable if a complaint is made against them to CNHC.

They register the following complementary therapies:

Alexander Technique teaching; Aromatherapy; Bowen Therapy; Colon Hydrotherapy, Craniosacral Therapy; Healing; Hypnotherapy; Kinesiology; Massage Therapy; Microsystems Acupuncture; Naturopathy; Nutritional Therapy; Reflexology; Reiki; Shiatsu; Sports Massage; Sports Therapy; Yoga Therapy.

·         Telephone: 020 3327 2720 (Monday - Friday between 9am and 5pm).

·         Email: info@cnhc.org.uk

·         Website: www.cnhc.org.uk

Factsheet: Complementary therapies

Look Good Feel Better is a cancer support charity that offers free workshops and online resources to help women, men, and young adults manage the visible side effects of cancer treatment. The workshops, led by trained volunteers from the beauty and wellbeing industry, provide practical advice on skincare, makeup, and other appearance-related concerns, fostering a supportive and empowering environment.  These workshops empower, motivate, and reduce isolation, boosting confidence and motivation during the cancer journey.

·         Telephone:  01372 747 500

·         Email:  info@lgfb.co.uk  

·         Website:  www.lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk

The online HOPE programme is a course designed to support people in developing techniques & strategies to manage aspects of living with cancer. The programme is a 6-week self-management course. It has been co-designed alongside people living with cancer, and is based on positive psychology, mindfulness & cognitive behavioural therapy. Patients will be asked to commit a minimum of 2 hours per week, at a time to suit them. They will need to have access to the internet via smartphone, tablet or PC. They will be able to work through the weekly materials in their own time at their own pace.

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00

·         Email: contact@macmillan.org.uk

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk

Life after Cancer brings people together who have finished cancer treatment to form support groups, with an aim to increase their physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing. The support they receive reduces the risk of serious mental distress and helps them to build a positive life after their cancer experience. 

·         Telephone:

·         Email: hello@life-aftercancer.co.uk

·         Website: www.life-aftercancer.co.uk

Mission Remission is a community who share stories, tips, and support to make life beyond cancer a little less scary and a lot more hopeful. Cancer treatment ends, but life after cancer can be challenging. Overwhelming exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty can leave you feeling like your old "normal" is gone forever. Mission Remission is a community for survivors to share stories, tips, and support. With over 15,000 members, it's a space to connect and start rebuilding with people who understand.

·         Telephone: 07717562596

·         Email: hello@mission-remission.org.uk

·         Website: www.mission-remission.com

Cancer Coach support groups are available to those that have completed their treatment but still experience low mood, anxiety and worry. If you have you finished cancer treatment and you’re struggling to adapt to your new normal / or feel unsupported when tackling the emotional challenges of post-treatment life – the Cancer Coach

6-week course take’s place online or via the telephone from the comfort of your own home. Sign up for free on the website. Cancer Coach groups are suitable for people who have previously had a stage 1-3 cancer diagnosis.

·         Telephone: 020 3983 7616

·         Email: hello@cancersupportuk.org

·         Website: www.cancersupportuk.org

The Macmillan Support Line is a free and confidential phone service for people living and affected by cancer. Please call: 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm). Macmillan Cancer Support provide services for people living with cancer at every stage of their cancer experience. They provide emotional, practical, physical, and financial support.

 They can offer:

o   Emotional support and practical information.

o   Offering financial advice.

o   Giving work guidance.

o   Sharing clinical information.

o   Giving insight into welfare rights.

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk

No one knows more about the impact cancer can have on your life than those who have been through it themselves. Support groups can be a valuable source of comfort, encouragement and offer shared understanding. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment or adjusting to life after cancer, being around others who may understand can make a big difference. They provide a safe space to talk, listen and learn, allowing you to connect - they can reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness.

Share your experiences, ask questions, seek support and reassurance, meet other people going through similar experiences, read or create blogs about your cancer experience / or join groups on Macmillan’s Online Community. You can access it any time of day or night; or if you’d like to read through people’s posts. You can also use the ‘Ask an Expert’ service on the Online Community.

·         Visit: www.macmillan.org.uk/community

Safeena is a UK-based organisation providing cancer support specifically tailored for Muslim communities. It offers emotional, practical, and spiritual support to Muslims diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families and friends. While faith-based, Safeena's services are open to anyone in need.  

·         Email: Contact via online form on website

·         Website: www.safeena.org.uk

Dougie Mac provides all hospice services free of charge to adults, young adults and children living with a life-limiting illnesses in Stoke-on-Trent, North Staffordshire and the surrounding villages; also offering supportive care for their families and carers. Dougie Mac have a team of community based palliative care nurses; and trained social workers who can guide and support patients and their families in a variety of ways, including: Individual support and advice, coping with change, helping with benefits advice and other financial resources, arranging practical support, comforting family, friends and children of patients, liaising with and referring to other organisations, and choice and decision making. Dougie Mac assists individuals with cancer and non-cancer life-limiting conditions such as severe heart failure, dementia, motor neurone disease, and terminal lung disorders.

·         Telephone: 01782 344300

·         Email: post@dmhospice.org.uk

·         Website: https://dougiemac.org.uk/

Pink Sisters & Misters is one of many local support groups in Staffordshire. They support people who have been diagnosed with all types of cancers – that support is also offered to families and friends that have been affected by their cancer diagnosis.

·         Telephone: 07786 007315

·         Email: pinksistersstaffs@gmail.com

·         Website: www.pinksisters.co.uk

Helping to connect younger adults in their 20s,30s and 40s. A cancer diagnosis is always hard but as a young adult, you can face unique challenges. Shine offers tailored information and peer support face to face, support groups, workshops & online networks. Visit the website and look at the videos which include the psychological effects of cancer, how to support a loved one, and the strategies for coping with anxiety. Their podcasts feature cancer survivors and their experience with anxiety, depression and PTSD and how they coped with the emotional trauma cancer brought into their lives.

·         Telephone: 07804 479413

·         Email: westmids@shinecancersupport.org / hi@shinecancersupport.org

·         Website: www.shinecancersupport.org

The Cancer Voices Community brings together individual people with personal experience of cancer, which they are willing to share to help achieve change. In partnership with Macmillan, cancer voices share their diverse lived experience to influence our work.

·         Telephone: 0300 1000 200 

·         Email: cancervoices@macmillan.org.uk.

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk/volunteering/share-your-experience/cancer-voices

Cancer Coach support groups are available to those that have completed their treatment but still experience low mood, anxiety and worry. If you have you finished cancer treatment and you’re struggling to adapt to your new normal / or feel unsupported when tackling the emotional challenges of post-treatment life – the Cancer Coach

6-week course take’s place online or via the telephone from the comfort of your own home. Sign up for free on the website. Cancer Coach groups are suitable for people who have previously had a stage 1-3 cancer diagnosis.

·         Telephone: 020 3983 7616

·         Email: hello@cancersupportuk.org

·         Website: www.cancersupportuk.org

Life after Cancer brings people together who have finished cancer treatment to form support groups, with an aim to increase their physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing. The support they receive reduces the risk of serious mental distress and helps them to build a positive life after their cancer experience. 

·         Telephone:

·         Email: hello@life-aftercancer.co.uk

·         Website: www.life-aftercancer.co.uk

The Macmillan Buddy service is free befriending service, that match you with someone who understands what you're going through; they'll give you a weekly telephone call. You can talk to them about how you're feeling and your support needs during this difficult time. The service is delivered by volunteers, who undergo comprehensive training and are fully supported by our staff and lead volunteers. In each case, support is usually provided for a total of up to 8 sessions, and in a number of different languages. The service is offered over the telephone only.

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00 

·         Email: contact@macmillan.org.uk  

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/emotional-help/macmillan-buddies

Share your experiences, ask questions, seek support and reassurance, meet other people going through similar experiences, read or create blogs about your cancer experience / or join groups on Macmillan’s Online Community. You can access it any time of day or night; or if you’d like to read through people’s posts. You can also use the ‘Ask an Expert’ service on the Online Community.

·         Visit: www.macmillan.org.uk/community

Safeena is a UK-based organisation providing cancer support specifically tailored for Muslim communities. It offers emotional, practical, and spiritual support to Muslims diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families and friends. While faith-based, Safeena's services are open to anyone in need.  

·         Email: Contact via online form on website

·         Website: www.safeena.org.uk

Dougie Mac provides all hospice services free of charge to adults, young adults and children living with a life-limiting illnesses in Stoke-on-Trent, North Staffordshire and the surrounding villages; also offering supportive care for their families and carers. Dougie Mac have a team of community based palliative care nurses; and trained social workers who can guide and support patients and their families in a variety of ways, including: Individual support and advice, coping with change, helping with benefits advice and other financial resources, arranging practical support, comforting family, friends and children of patients, liaising with and referring to other organisations, and choice and decision making. Dougie Mac assists individuals with cancer and non-cancer life-limiting conditions such as severe heart failure, dementia, motor neurone disease, and terminal lung disorders.

·         Telephone: 01782 344300

·         Email: post@dmhospice.org.uk

·         Website: https://dougiemac.org.uk/

The HOPE programme is an online self-management course delivered by Hope for the Community CIC and is based on an online platform. The content of the HOPE programme has been co-designed alongside people living with cancer and is based on positive psychology mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy. It is built on 25 years of research evidence at Coventry university. It is designed to support you in developing techniques and strategies to manage several aspects of living with cancer.  It is run over a 6-week period, requiring you to commit a minimum of 2 hours per week, at a time to suits you. You will need to have access to the internet via smartphone, tablet or PC. You will be able to work through the weekly materials in your own time at your own pace

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00

·         Website: www.macmillan.org.uk (search for HOPE online)

Share your experiences, ask questions, seek support and reassurance, meet other people going through similar experiences, read or create blogs about your cancer experience / or join groups on Macmillan’s Online Community. You can access it any time of day or night; or if you’d like to read through people’s posts. You can also use the ‘Ask an Expert’ service on the Online Community.

·         Visit: www.macmillan.org.uk/community

A will is a legal document. It gives instructions about who you want to get your money and belongings when you die. Whatever you leave when you die is called your estate. The people who get your money or possessions are called your beneficiaries.

Writing a will makes sure your wishes are followed after you die. A will makes sure that your loved ones and the charities you care about receive what you want to give them. Writing your wishes in a will may help you feel less anxious about the future.

If you die without a will, there are laws about how your estate is passed on. This process often takes much longer. Your money and belongings may not go to the people you would have chosen.

Many National Charities offer free will-writing; for more information on wills or Power of Attorney, please contact the UHNM Macmillan Cancer Support and Information centre on: 01782 676333

Making a will or legal advice

Money-Helper is an online money and pensions guidance service with information and fact-sheets on Power of Attorney. A power of attorney lets someone you trust make decisions for you formally if you can’t. Whether it’s because of sickness, an accident or something else, having a power of attorney ensures that your affairs are handled how you want, giving you peace of mind and legal protection. Go online and search Power of Attorney.

·         Website: www.moneyhelper.org.uk

·         Money Guidance 0800 138 7777 (Mon –Fri 8am -6pm)

·         Pension Guidance 0800 011 3797 (Mon –Fri 9am -5pm)

Patient Advice and Liaison Service at both Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital, Stafford assist and support patients throughout their care. They are an impartial, welcoming, open and confidential service for people who would like information or advice, or would like to comment about any aspect of the services provided by University Hospital of North Midlands

·         Telephone: 01782 676450

·         Email: Patientadvice.uhnm@nhs.net

·         Website: www.uhnm.nhs.uk/our-services/patient-experience-and-pals/

Active lifestyles include exposure to sunlight, which aids vitamin D production and reduces illness risk. However, excessive UV exposure can cause skin cancer, especially after cancer treatment, which may increase skin sensitivity and increase the risk of skin cancer.

·         Telephone: 0808 808 00 00

·         Email:

·         Website:  Sun safety and cancer treatment | Macmillan Cancer Support

·         Telephone:  020 7391 6341 – Non-Medical Advice

·         Email:  admin@britishskinfoundation.org.uk  

·         Website: www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk

·         Telephone:  0300 123 1022

·         Email:  supporter.services@cancer.org.uk   

·         Website:  Sun safety | Reduce your skin cancer risk | Cancer Research UK

Advice about sun safety and sunscreen for kids and adults in the UK and overseas.

Skin cancer risk is increased by sunburn. Sunburn is not limited to vacations. Even in gloomy weather, you can still get burned in the UK. There's no healthy or safe technique to get tanned. Your skin is not shielded from the damaging effects of the sun by a tan. Strike a balance between obtaining adequate vitamin D from sunlight and protecting yourself from it (NHS).

If you’re not sure - please ask your medical team for their guidance.

·         Website:  Sunscreen and sun safety - NHS

At CANCER CARD, our mission is to ensure no one faces cancer alone. We provide a compassionate, personalised service that connects people affected by cancer with the right support, regardless of their background or circumstances

·         Telephone: 0131 287 3001

·         Email: support@cancercard.org.uk

·         Website: www.cancercard.org.uk

Cancer Care Map is a simple, online resource that aims to help you find cancer support services in your local area wherever you are in the UK

·         Website: www.cancercaremap.org

At CANCER CARD, our mission is to ensure no one faces cancer alone. We provide a compassionate, personalised service that connects people affected by cancer with the right support, regardless of their background or circumstances

·         Telephone: 0131 287 3001

·         Email: support@cancercard.org.uk

·         Website: www.cancercard.org.uk

Cancer Care Map is a simple, online resource that aims to help you find cancer support services in your local area wherever you are in the UK

·         Website: www.cancercaremap.org

Staffordshire Connects is a website with an online directory which connects you to help and support in your local community. It is easy to use and can offer details of care and support services, befriending groups, organisations, local activities, events, clubs and community groups.

·         Telephone: 0300 303 0621

·         Email: staffordshire.connects@staffordshire.gov.uk

·         Website: www.staffordshireconnects.info

*If you’d find it easier to talk to a healthcare professional - your GP, specialist nurse or healthcare team at the hospital can provide a listening ear and will try to support you.

Patient or carer's support group

Health and well-being

Complementary therapies

Exercise and activity

Exercising safely with cancer | Macmillan Cancer Support

Giving up smoking

Making a will or legal advice

planning-for-my-future-priorities_tcm9-356330

Thinking about the future