The Development of a Multi-Modal Cancer Rehabilitation (Including Prehabilitation) Service in Sheffield, UK: Designing the Active Together Service

Cancer patients undergoing major interventions face numerous challenges, including the adverse effects of cancer and the side effects of treatment. Cancer rehabilitation is vital in ensuring cancer patients have the support they need to maximise treatment outcomes and minimise treatment-related side effects and symptoms. The Active Together service is a multi-modal rehabilitation service designed to address critical support gaps for cancer patients. The service is located and provided in Sheffield, UK, an area with higher cancer incidence and mortality rates than the national average. The service aligns with local and regional cancer care objectives and aims to improve the clinical and quality-of-life outcomes of cancer patients by using lifestyle behaviour-change techniques to address their physical, nutritional, and psychological needs. This paper describes the design and initial implementation of the Active Together service, highlighting its potential to support and benefit cancer patients.

Active Together: Cancer Rehabilitation Programme in Sheffield

What is it about?

The “Active Together” programme in Sheffield, UK, offers a tailored rehabilitation service for cancer patients, addressing physical, nutritional, and psychological needs. Designed for individuals undergoing treatment for lung, colorectal, or upper gastrointestinal cancers, this service emphasises prehabilitation (pre-treatment preparation), maintenance (support during treatment), restoration (post-treatment recovery), and supportive care for long-term health. The programme is patient-centred, involving cancer patients, healthcare professionals, and researchers in its design. Initial assessments guide personalised care plans, which include supervised exercise, dietary guidance, and psychological support. The programme uses behaviour-change techniques, motivational interviewing, and support tools to encourage long-term lifestyle changes. The service is delivered at the AWRC, and in community settings, integrating with Sheffield’s “Move More” strategy to make it accessible and inclusive. The programme’s goal is to improve treatment outcomes, reduce side effects, and enhance quality of life by empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery and long-term health.

Why is it important?

Cancer affects physical and mental well-being, and treatment often comes with severe side effects. While rehabilitation is critical, it is rarely integrated into standard cancer care, leaving many patients without the support needed for optimal recovery. In Sheffield, where cancer rates are above the UK average, this gap has been significant. “Active Together” addresses this need by offering a structured, evidence-based rehabilitation programme. Research shows that physical activity, proper nutrition, and psychological support can improve survival rates, reduce recurrence, and enhance quality of life. Prehabilitation and rehabilitation also reduce hospital stays, improve treatment tolerance, and lower healthcare costs. This programme represents a scalable model for integrating holistic cancer care into health services. By making support accessible to diverse populations, including those in underserved areas, it sets a benchmark for equitable and effective cancer rehabilitation.

Key takeaways

1. Tailored cancer care: Combines physical, psychological, and nutritional support.

2. Proven benefits: Reduces side effects, recurrence, and improves survival rates.

3. Inclusive delivery: Community-based for better accessibility and equity.

4. Empowers patients: Encourages active participation in recovery and long-term health.

5. Scalable model: Offers a template for integrating rehab into cancer care systems.