Massage in Oncology
Hybrid Training Programme
Part 1 – Online
Dates TBC | 2 hours (7.30–9.30 pm)
Part 2 – In person
Thursday 16th & Friday 17th April 2026 (9.30 am – 5.00 pm)
Part 3 – Online
Dates TBC | 2 hours (7.30–9.30 pm)
Course Overview
Providing massage in oncology settings is both a privilege and a responsibility. This course supports therapists to work safely, compassionately, and confidently with people living with and beyond cancer.
The training is evidence-informed and aligned with guidance from the British Society for Integrative Oncology (BSIO) and the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care (SATCC).
Course objectives:
By the end of this course, practitioners will be able to:
- Understand different types of cancer and their basic physiology
- Understand key cancer treatments (including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy) and how they impact the person
- Understand Integrative Oncology care and your role as a massage therapist within this framework
- Recognise red flags and contraindications relevant to massage for people suffering recovering or with history of cancer
- Carry out sensitive, informed consultations and confidently use appropriate communication strategies
- Adapt massage treatments safely based on clinical presentation, treatment timing, positioning, and individual safety considerations, in line with standards designed to protect people touched by cancer
- Integrate lymphatic drainage awareness appropriately within oncology massage practice
- Integrate introductory scar work awareness within oncology care, with clear understanding that in-depth scar work is covered in a separate specialist CPD workshop
- Navigate evidence and professional standards to support safe, ethical decision-making
- Provide compassionate, evidence-informed care that respects dignity, comfort, and individual experience
