A new program has been launched at Northern Health to support and empower those living with and beyond cancer,
The Northern Health Cancer Services have launched WellAhead which is a holistic wellness initiative, co-designed with consumers.
It aims to foster the physical, mental, and social well-being of those who face challenges living with, and beyond, cancer through a diverse and inclusive range of activities.
These include an old blokes shed, knitting and craft support groups, Northern Health community choir, yoga, meditation and classes for seniors from Whittlesea U3A.
Northern Health medical oncology director Dr Frances Barnett said they had been aware for a long time that their lack of promotion of well-being has been a gap in the services they provide cancer patients.
“The WellAhead Program marks the beginning of the focus to improve this for the long term benefit of our patients, their carers, and our community,” she said.
Volunteer services manager Henni Wade said their volunteers really make a difference and enhance the patient experience and they welcome participants of the WellAhead program.
Transformation unit and choir director and project manager Alison Davies added, “Northern Health Community Choir is delighted to support and be part of the WellAhead program.
The choir is an inclusive forum, that welcomes membership not only from our staff but also members of the local community.
Whittlesea U3A president Glen Wall said they had observed the benefits seniors enjoy from participation in their classes and activities on their health and wellbeing with more than 130 classes that they run at a reduced rate.
Details: www.nh.org.au/wellahead
