A new programme has been launched in Northampton to help people with cancer prepare physically and emotionally for treatment.

Maggie’s Northampton is now offering its five-week Getting Ready programme, developed alongside staff at Northampton General Hospital.

The free programme focuses on improving emotional health, nutrition and physical activity, while helping people understand their treatment and cope with the stress and uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis.

Research has shown that adopting healthier habits in the weeks before treatment can bring benefits including shorter hospital stays and fewer post-treatment complications.

Leading cancer support charity Maggie’s opened its newest centre in October at the Diana Russell Building at Northampton General Hospital. Photo: Alex Maguire Photography.

placeholder image — Leading cancer support charity Maggie’s opened its newest centre in October at the Diana Russell Building at Northampton General Hospital. Photo: Alex Maguire Photography.

Maggie’s said its pre-treatment support, also known as prehabilitation or “prehab”, is already established at its centres in Scotland and is now being rolled out more widely across England and Wales.

In 2025, Maggie’s delivered 2,389 prehab sessions, up 37 per cent on the previous year. Of those taking part, 83 per cent reported feeling more confident about changing their diet and exercise routine, while 87 per cent felt more confident managing their emotional wellbeing.

Wendy Lilley, centre head at Maggie’s Northampton, said: “Being told you have cancer can be one of the hardest conversations you may ever have and figuring out where to turn to for support and guidance before treatment can feel overwhelming.

“This programme, delivered for free in our welcoming centre by our expert staff, gives people clear, practical information and guidance on how to look after themselves, so they can start treatment feeling as strong, calm and supported as possible.”

Liz Summers, lead cancer nurse at Northampton General Hospital, said prehab could help people improve their physical and emotional wellbeing and “maximise resilience to treatment”.

Getting Ready is being held at the Maggie’s centre in the grounds of Northampton General Hospital, near the Billing Road exit.

It is open to anyone starting or preparing for cancer treatment, with no referral required. Family members and carers can also attend.

Upcoming five-week courses begin on September 16 at 5.30pm and September 30 at 3.30pm.