Overview

Cancer and its treatments may cause physical and psychological issues which can affect your quality of life and everyday tasks.

We can help you prepare for your treatment and provide support, advice and rehabilitation for any symptoms or concerns you may develop or have.

We'll work with you at any point in your cancer journey with symptoms or concerns including:

• tiredness
• weakness
• reduce joint movement, stiffness and swelling
• breathlessness
• pain
• incontinence
• difficulty moving, standing, walking or going up and down stairs
• difficulty with concentration
• weight or appetite changes
• difficulty with swallowing or talking

We can also refer you to other services such as lymphoedema, community rehabilitation, community exercise and support services depending on your needs.

We'll assess you and provide an individual rehabilitation plan based on your needs before, during and after treatment.

This plan could include:

• one-to-one or group treatment sessions to manage tiredness, mobility, low mood, memory and concentration
• one-to-one and group exercise classes
• support to restore strength, flexibility, balance, physical fitness and confidence after your treatment
• information and support to help you live well with cancer

We work closely with cancer and community teams to support you and manage your health and care needs, including:

• physiotherapy services
• occupational therapy
• speech and language therapy
• nutrition and dietetics service

Our team is made up of:

• cancer and haematology specialists
• occupational therapists
• speech and language therapists
• dietitians
• physiotherapists
• specialist therapy rehabilitation cancer exercise instructors
• therapy assistants

Wards

Our cancer therapy team provide rehabilitation support to each of the cancer wards at Guy’s Hospital.

Please ask the nurse or doctor caring for you to refer you to the ward therapy team.

Health information

Our Dimbleby Cancer Care offers support and information during and after your cancer treatment.

South East London Cancer Alliance provides information and support for people with cancer living in south east London. 

Macmillan Cancer Support has free information and emotional support for people with cancer.

Research and clinical trials

Research is vital to improving the care that you receive when you're unwell. You can help improve healthcare by taking part in research studies at our Trust. During your appointment, ask your healthcare professional about research. They'll be happy to tell you about research studies you could be eligible to join.