The group is open to anyone touched by cancer and provides support in a rural area with a large elderly population and poor public transport links.

The Living Tree offers art and craft activities and workshops, a wide range of speakers on health and wellbeing, therapies, swimming and singing groups, a growing library, information and support. Members, both men and women from different age groups seek support.

The Foundation supported a cancer rehabilitation project called Stepping Out. The ground-breaking referral programme was designed for people living with and beyond cancer to gain benefits from engaging in appropriate physical activities. It comprises of gentle group circuit exercises, educational talks and separate ‘taster sessions’ providing the opportunity to try different activities (such as introduction to the fitness suite, yoga, meditation, pilates, cardio dance and Nordic walking).

Over 100 people have participated in the programme including carers and partners. They are a testament to the benefits that physical activity can bring to the health and wellbeing of people recovering from and living with cancer.

The DCF Team had the pleasure of visiting the group in April to witness the difference the Stepping Out Sessions are making. One of the beneficiaries explained: ’After my wife passed away I used to sit in a chair all day. Since I started the exercises my knees and my general fitness have improved, and I also started golfing regularly. I’m looking forward to the Stepping Out sessions every week now.’