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My name is Zoe and I have been a complementary therapist here at Beatson Cancer Charity since 2015. I really enjoy my job and feel so privileged to support the lovely patients and their families during their cancer journey. I find my job very rewarding and love how every day is different and being part of such an amazing team.
At Beatson Cancer Charity, we believe that wellbeing plays a crucial role in cancer care. Our team of trained therapists provide a range of complementary therapies to support patients physically, emotionally and mentally throughout their treatment. We caught up with Zoe, one of our experienced therapists, to answer some of the most common questions about the services we offer.
What complementary therapies are available through the charity?
We offer a wide range of therapies tailored to each patient’s needs, including:
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Reflexology
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Reiki
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Relaxation
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Massage
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Indian head massage
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Facial
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Gua-sha stone facial
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Manicure
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Pedicure
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Threading
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Stress management
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Make-up application
How can things like massage, reflexology or reiki help during treatment?
Therapies such as reflexology and massage can be beneficial during treatment as they promote relaxation, can help aid sleep, therapies can also help reduce pain and nausea and can help reduce feelings of anxiety.
Are these therapies safe to use alongside medical treatments?
Yes the therapies we provide are safely used alongside medical treatments. Before therapies are provided we go through an in depth consultation form with each patient, to see what therapies we can offer at this point. Each therapy provided is adapted to suit each individual and we work closely with NHS staff and NHS guidelines.
How do I access or book a session – do I need to be referred?
Complementary therapies are available to all inpatients in the Beatson. These can be delivered at the patients bedside or within our therapy rooms. We provide therapies to day patients attending the Macmillan day unit and take referrals from the radiotherapy team for patients requiring some additional support. We also provide therapies to patients at 8 satellite locations across Greater Glasgow and Clyde. For more information on the areas we cover please see our website.
Are these therapies available to inpatients, outpatients, or both?
For inpatients at the Beatson looking to book a complementary therapy appointment a request can be completed in the wellbeing centre, with staff on the ward or by phone call. Each satellite location varies slightly in process with regards to arranging a therapy appointment, for more information on this patient's can call the wellbeing centre, ask one if our team or check the website.
Are there online or virtual options available for therapies?
We now offer virtual relaxation appointments on a Thursday.
Is there a cost for accessing these therapies?
There is no cost to any of our services.
