Everyone should have the opportunity to be physically active and benefit from the role exercise plays in cancer prevention, treatment and recovery. Yet, for people with learning disabilities and autism, accessible cancer-specific resources have been lacking. Created in partnership with The Baked Bean Charity, Guy's Cancer and The Learning Lab, we are excited to introduce this new set of inspiring and accessible exercise videos.
The students at The Baked Bean Charity weren't simply involved in the project – they led it. They decided how the information should be presented, chose the language and worked alongside physiotherapists from the Guy's Cancer Physical Activity Service to develop the exercises featured in the videos. Their input shaped every stage of the resource, ensuring it is accessible, meaningful and reflects what people with learning disabilities and autism say they want.
Alongside this lived experience, the resource has been developed with clinical expertise from the physiotherapy team within the Guy's Cancer Physical Activity Service, giving confidence that the exercises are safe, appropriate and evidence-based for people affected by, or wanting to reduce their risk of, cancer.
The resource includes four easy-to-follow videos led by the students at the Baked Bean Charity:
- Why physical activity matters in cancer prevention, prehabilitation and rehabilitation.
- A warm-up routine.
- Strength exercises that can be completed sitting or standing.
- A cool-down session.
The videos use clear language, Makaton during heavy verbal sections, bold visuals and clear demonstrations, making it easier for people to follow along at their own pace, whether they want to be more active to help reduce their cancer risk, are preparing for or going through cancer treatment, or are recovering afterwards.
This project is about more than producing a set of exercise videos. It's about making sure people with learning disabilities and autism have access to cancer information and support that has been designed with them, rather than adapted for them. By combining lived experience with specialist cancer physiotherapy and expert media design, we've created a vibrant and energetic resource that is both accessible and clinically supported for everyone to enjoy - why not try it yourself?
The resource is available now via this link: Supporting people with learning disabilities to stay active :: South East London Cancer Alliance