Cancer survivors in the East Riding are being encouraged to take part in a group walk which is re-launching in Beverley.
The East Riding’s ‘Walking for Health’ programme has joined forces with the Macmillan Cancer Survivorship Team to offer everyone, including those recovering from cancer, the chance to take part in a weekly walk from East Riding Leisure Beverley.
Those taking part in the walk, which starts at 6.30pm on Monday, 11 April, have the option of following a 30 minute or one hour route every Monday evening.
Councillor Jonathan Owen, chairman of the East Riding Health and Wellbeing Board, said: “Fighting cancer can be an incredible challenge and the road to recovery can last long after the physical treatment has finished.
“This is where a scheme such as this, which is designed to encourage those recovering from illness to boost their physical and mental wellbeing, comes into play.
“The Walking for Health programme is just one of many examples of the work that the council is involved in, along with partner agencies, to help East Riding residents lead as healthy, active and independent lives as possible.”
The short and easy walks are perfect for those recovering from cancer treatment, another illness or injury, or those who simply want to do more exercise and meet new people.
Physical activity can play an important role in a person’s recovery after cancer treatment, helping to:
• Reduce tiredness and some treatment side effects
• Reduce anxiety and depression
• Improve your mood and quality of life
• Strengthen your muscles, joints and bones
• Look after your heart and reduce the risk of other health problems.
Healthy lifestyles officer, Laura Hutchinson, said: “The walk was first launched two years ago and has always been a popular option among those who are looking to get active once again after undergoing treatment for cancer.
“Now the nights at getting lighter, and hopefully the weather warming up, we are looking forward to re-launching the walk and welcoming walkers old and new into what is a friendly and sociable group.”
Claire Walker, associate practitioner in survivorship, added: “We’re really excited to be working with East Riding’s Walking for Health Scheme as it’s a great way to get people, especially those recovering from cancer such as the patients we support, more physically active.
“Being more active can help with some of the side effects people experience during and after cancer treatment, such as fatigue and depression.
“Whether you’re used to being active or new to it, regular physical activity such as walking is safe and can help you feel better in lots of ways.
“Most people nowadays will either have experienced cancer themselves or know someone who has, so this is a great opportunity to blow away the cobwebs, enjoy a nice walk out in the fresh air and know that you’ll be doing yourself a world of good.”
There is no need to purchase any specialist walking equipment, but participants must wear a sturdy pair of shoes that are comfortable to walk in.
Anyone who would like to get involved but is unable to attend on a Monday evening can still take part in the Walking for health programme.
There are 30 and 45 minute walks taking place on Wednesdays during the day, and one hour and two hour walks taking place on Thursdays from East Riding Leisure Beverley.
Alternatively there are a wide range of led walks happening in various locations across the East Riding.
For more information contact healthy lifestyles development, officer Laura Hutchinson, on (01482) 392527 or email laura.hutchinson@eastriding.gov.uk
