Scarborough, Whitby, and Ryedale Mind launches project supporting cancer prevention in people with SMI

Funded by the NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance, this initiative emphasises the importance of supporting mental health alongside physical health in cancer prevention and treatment.

This launch coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing cancer screening and early detection. People with SMI are often less likely to attend routine cancer screenings and more likely to experience lifestyle factors like smoking and poor diet that increase their cancer risk.

The Wellness Bridge offers a personalised approach to help individuals break down barriers and take steps toward attending screenings and improving their health. Key services include: Peer support and access to counselling in partnership with Community Counselling, practical assistance such as education and support to attend cancer screenings, appointments and treatments, personalised support around physical activity, nutrition, and habit breaking, along with connections to local support services.

At SWR Mind, we understand how difficult it can be to make changes, especially for those experiencing mental ill health. The Wellness Bridge is here to support our clients, without judgement, from whichever place they’re starting from, whether that’s starting to engage in 5 minutes of walking a day or feeling anxious about booking a screening appointment; our project is here to help them reach the next step, at their pace.

Hayley Doubtfire, Wellbeing Outreach Worker at Scarborough, Whitby, and Ryedale Mind, said: "The Wellness Bridge was developed through listening to our client’s experiences of mental health whilst going through cancer treatment and the lack of emotional support they received as individuals with more complex mental health needs. This project offers the support to both those with and without a cancer diagnosis to make meaningful, lasting change that improves overall wellbeing.”

Stephen Robling, Chief Officer of Community Counselling, said: “Community Counselling is pleased to be working in partnership with Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale Mind to deliver support to people impacted by cancer by providing a safe environment in which they can talk about difficult thoughts and feelings during a uniquely challenging time.”

Dr Kartikae Grover, Clinical Director, Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance, said: “The Cancer Alliance is pleased to have helped fund Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale Mind’s Wellness Bridge. Looking after the mental health of cancer patients, as well as their physical health, can make such a difference in cancer treatment.”  

The Wellness Bridge welcomes referrals from individuals, GPs, healthcare professionals, and community organisations. For more information or to make an enquiry, visit www.swrmind.org.uk.