Research & evidence base
At a glance...
Our comprehensive member survey revealed the transformational impact of Cancer United's services on emotional, physical, and social wellbeing for people living with and beyond cancer.
Emotional uplift
71% became more hopeful and positive; 69% felt better supported
Physical benefits
96% of CUFITTER™ users reported improved fitness
Social connection
85% valued friendships; 76% found peer-sharing beneficial
Overall excellence
84% rated services as 'excellent'; zero poor ratings
Everything we do is grounded in evidence, safety, and measurable results
At Cancer United, we believe in the power of evidence to drive better outcomes for people living with and beyond cancer. Our approach is grounded in both our own impact assessments and established academic research demonstrating the vital role of exercise, peer support, and holistic care in cancer recovery.
Our programmes are designed to complement NHS clinical care, reduce pressure on health services, and improve recovery outcomes for people living with and beyond cancer.
Our work aligns directly with the NHS ‘Long Term Plan and Living With and Beyond Cancer’ frameworks, embedding exercise, and personalised support into every stage of the cancer pathway.
From local beginnings to a regional force
What began as a small local group has grown into a highly respected, community-based organisation and strategic partner within the regional healthcare system. Working alongside the NHS, Macmillan, the Surrey and Sussex Cancer Alliance, and other health partners, the charity delivers non-clinical services that ease pressure on the system while transforming lives.
Evidence & outcomes
- Over 80% of members report improved physical strength, stamina, and self-confidence within 12 weeks of joining CUFITTER™
- 70% report reduced fatigue and improved mental wellbeing after regular participation
- Participants completing prehabilitation programmes demonstrate enhanced treatment tolerance and faster post-surgical recovery
- Our community model reduces pressure on NHS rehabilitation and mental health services by offering long-term, non-clinical continuity of care
Measuring what matters
Cancer United continuously evaluates its services to ensure quality, safety, and impact. Our latest Impact Report details how our exercise, music, and peer-support programmes improve physical, emotional, and social outcomes across our member community.
Read our impact report
Together, these results demonstrate that Cancer United provides a proven, community-based model of survivorship care — empowering patients, supporting the NHS, and transforming life after cancer.
Read Impact Report
Professional collaboration opportunities
Cancer United actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with healthcare partners to strengthen cancer recovery pathways and improve survivorship outcomes.
We welcome joint initiatives with oncology units, Surrey & Sussex Cancer Alliance, the Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), and allied health teams to explore:
- Co-delivery or integration pilots embedding prehabilitation, rehabilitation, and wellbeing programmes within local cancer pathways
- Training sessions for clinicians and nurses to increase understanding of the role and evidence base for cancer-specific exercise
- Collaborative research and survivorship projects to measure the wider impact of community-based, non-clinical interventions
Together, we can extend the reach of rehabilitation beyond the hospital, support the NHS in delivering personalised care, and ensure that every person affected by cancer has access to safe, effective, and inspiring community support.
Stronger together in cancer recovery.
Partner with Cancer United to give your patients access to trusted, community-based exercise, support, and wellbeing programmes.
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