County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) and a local rowing club are working together to provide a supportive and engaging activity as part of the Trust’s cancer prehabilitation programme.
This partnership between the Trust and Durham Amateur Rowing Club aims to support cancer patients to improve their physical and mental wellbeing before and during treatment through inclusive, community-based physical activity. The collaboration was gratefully funded and supported by the Northern Cancer Alliance and Point North.
The rowing sessions, led by trained staff and volunteers, are tailored to support individuals at any level of fitness or treatment stage. Held in a friendly and inclusive environment, these sessions focus on low-impact cardiovascular exercise and improving general fitness and flexibility. The sessions are designed not only to build strength and endurance but also to foster a sense of community and shared motivation among participants.
Professor Richard Scothon, CDDFT Chairman and Durham County Council’s Corporate Director of Adult and Health Services, Michael Laing, both keen rowers themselves, recently visited one of the sessions and met with patients who shared how transformative the service has been for them.
One patient, a 52-year-old man recently diagnosed with colorectal cancer, shared his journey: “Before I even had a confirmed diagnosis, I had started making lifestyle changes. But it was the group sessions that made the biggest difference.”
"These classes possibly helped save my life..."
He went on to say that, following his diagnosis, he had struggled with both chronic pain and depression. The sessions provided him with a sense of routine, relief from physical symptoms, and crucial emotional support. “These classes possibly helped save my life during the hardest part of my cancer journey. I was motivated to return each week - not just for the exercise, but for the laughter and sense of belonging. It felt like a safe place.”
A 46 year old female participant with breast cancer stated that the course had ‘given me something else to focus on and talk about other than my cancer – it has been fantastic for my mental health and I’m more active’.
CDDFT’s Specialist Allied Health Professionals and Advanced Wellbeing Practitioners work closely with patients, tailoring treatment and care to their needs and building a supportive, encouraging atmosphere. As part of the Trust’s holistic approach to cancer care, these prehabilitation services aim to optimise patients’ resilience, reduce treatment complications and enhance recovery outcomes.
Joanne Peacock, Cancer Prehabilitation Programme Manager, said: “The introduction of rowing to our prehab programme underscores our commitment to providing innovative, person-centred care options. It’s not just about preparing the body for treatment, it’s about lifting spirits and restoring confidence during an incredibly challenging time.
“We thank our local rowing club partners in Durham for making this vision a reality and look forward to seeing the positive impact grow across our communities.”
