Training course launches to help therapists work with cancer patients

UK cancer charity the Amethyst Trust is introducing a training course focused on treating clients with cancer in spas and salons. 

The one-day training course, taking place at the International Beauty & Holistic Academy in Gloucester on November 23, has been developed to help therapists better work with clients suffering or in remission from cancer.

The course, which has received insurance approval by JMP, the JP Morgan Partnership, and is also endorsed by the Penny Brohn Cancer Care centre in Bristol, aims to address the myths surrounding treating patients with cancer.

Points addressed as part of the course also include highlighting the benefits of massage for clients with cancer, adapting consultations for this client group, and looking at the insurance requirementd involved in treating patients with cancer.

Julie Speed, trustee of the Gloucester-based Amethyst Trust and director of the International Beauty & Holistic Academy, said: “There are a plethora of myths about whether or not massage is safe whilst undergoing cancer treatment and the reality is that it is perfectly safe if adaptations are made."

The course will be lead by sports and remedial therapist John Holman, by Julie Speed and by Debbie Moore, also director of the International Beauty & Holistic Academy training school in Gloucester.

Michael Connors, director of services at Penny Brohn Cancer Care, said: “We are pleased to offer our endorsement of the course that Amethyst Trust has created.

“The course supports therapists to gain confidence and competence when working with clients who are being treated for cancer or who have a history of cancer.”

Therapists wishing to go on the course need to have a Level 3 Body Massage diploma. A second course will be held on December 14, with planning currently in progress for the 2016 training calendar. 

Donations will be made to the Penny Brohn Cancer Care centre and other cancer charities, from the proceeds of each course.