Complementary therapies are supportive treatments offered alongside medical care such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery. They do not replace cancer treatment but are designed to support wellbeing and help people manage the physical and emotional impact of cancer.
Therapies such as massage, relaxation techniques, acupuncture, and mindfulness may help to ease symptoms and side effects, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall quality of life. Complementary therapies can also benefit those living well beyond cancer, supporting recovery, ongoing wellbeing, and adjustment after treatment has finished. Delivered by appropriately trained practitioners, these therapies provide safe, supportive care in a calm and welcoming environment.
Acupunture
CBAS (Community-Based Acupuncture Service) is a partnership between Sussex Cancer Fund, Macmillan Cancer Support, and local acupuncture services. It offers medical acupuncture, adapted from traditional Chinese acupuncture, and delivered by nurses trained in this approach. The service provides a course of six weekly treatments for patients experiencing symptoms related to cancer or its treatment, such as pain, fatigue, nausea, and hot flushes. Following this initial course, there may be an opportunity to join group sessions for a further three treatments. Some patients may also be supported to learn simple self-needling techniques at the end of their treatment.
Patients can ask their clinical team or Cancer Support Worker for a referral.
Other services
For other complementary services, these are available through your Cancer Support Worker or contact one of the providers below; On-site University Hospitals Sussex Cancer Services and Macmillan complementary therapies are available. We are offering up to six free complementary therapy sessions to patients and carers affected by cancer at either Worthing or St Richards. Sessions are adapted to suit individual needs and include an initial consultation with the therapist. Complementary Therapies can help to improve wellbeing, provide relief from symptoms and improve a person’s quality of life. Each therapy session is approx 45 minutes and are provided by qualified volunteer complementary therapists.
Complementary therapies are also available for patients in the Brighton & Hove area from:
- The Macmillan Horizon Centre, Bristol Gate, Brighton
- Or contact your Cancer Support Worker for more information and a referral