Where you can go to have complementary therapies

Many cancer wards, units and hospitals now offer patients a range of complementary therapies free of charge, as part of their care. Those most commonly offered are

• Acupuncture
• Massage, including aromatherapy massage and shiatsu
• Reflexology

Other types of complementary therapy may be available, such as homeopathy, art therapy, music therapy and visualisation, so it is always worth asking. Some therapies may also be available for carers.

Therapists who work in the hospital setting must have the necessary qualifications and they will be familiar with working with people with cancer. They may be working as volunteers or may be paid employees of the hospital. If your hospital doesn’t offer complementary therapies it is always worth asking your nurse or doctor if they can recommend anywhere else in your area. There is information about finding a therapist in this section of CancerHelp UK.

Many hospices offer their patients, and sometimes their carers, a range of complementary therapies free of charge. They may be able to offer a wider range of therapies than those provided in hospitals.

Some GP practices around the UK offer complementary therapies as part of their care. They will have therapists on site with the necessary qualifications. Or your GP may have training in specific therapies, such as

• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic techniques
• Hypnotherapy
• Homeopathy

You will probably have to pay for these extra services from your GP but they may not be as expensive as going to a private therapist.

Some cancer charities or organisations offer people complementary therapies. Look in our complementary therapies organisations section for a list of organisations that offer information about complementary therapies and complementary therapy services.

There are 4 NHS homeopathic hospitals in the UK – in Bristol, Glasgow, Liverpool and London. They see people with a variety of conditions, including cancer. As well as homeopathy, they offer other complementary therapies. Some of them run a support programme for people with cancer. Details of these homeopathic hospitals are on the homeopathy page of CancerHelp UK.

Across the UK, there are several centres that offer support, information and complementary therapies to people with cancer. Some charge for these services and some don’t. Some will charge people who can afford to pay, but don’t turn anyone away because they can’t afford the costs. Some offer services to carers, as well as people with cancer. They can provide physical, emotional and spiritual support and offer practical advice on nutrition. Look at our complementary therapy organisations list to find centres in your area.

There are literally thousands of private complementary therapists around the country. Some may have their own private rooms or use a room that is part of a health or fitness centre. Look in the section on finding a therapist for information about the best way to find someone to suit your specific needs.