A DEDICATED group of spa therapists from Windermere have completed training to help with the treatment of cancer patients.

Katie Read, Hannah Ford and Beckie Gibson from Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa have completed an Oncology massage qualification through the accredited Jennifer Young Training School. Their training has included Level 1 and advanced cancer awareness, as well as holistic facial, hand, nail and foot treatments.

Oncology massage is a certified qualification which gives spa therapists the skills and knowledge to undertake gentle, sensitive massage treatments to patients going through different stages of cancer.

Physical and emotional benefits are well documented from reducing pain, nausea and anxiety through to improving circulation, mood and wellbeing.

"Katie, Hannah and Beckie are now qualified to offer oncology massage, facials, manicures and pedicures for cancer patients which means we can offer a range of specialist recovery treatments here at Low Wood Bay," said Annabel Berry from English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues.

“These types of treatments are not currently fully recognised as standard in our industry and have not been given due prominence. We want to change that and ensure every client who steps through our doors can be cared for and looked after when they are going through really difficult times in their life.”

Head therapist at the spa Beckie Gibson said: "Taking part in theoncology treatments training has been a very rewarding experience for me as a therapist. These types of treatments should be much more widely available, so I’m glad we can now offer them. The training has also been great for our career progression and a chance for us to develop our skills."

English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues also supports breast cancer charity Paddlers for Life, which has two dragon boats at Low Wood Bay Watersports Centre for use by patients and families to help build friendship and support networks.

For further information about these new treatments for cancer patients, call Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa on 01539 439303.