Cancer patients are receiving free pampering masterclasses at King’s Mill Hospital, Sutton, thanks to a new partnership with the charity Look Good Feel Better.

The confidence-boosting classes offer pampering therapy and practical support for women struggling with the visible effects of cancer treatment.

Ten ladies attended the opening workshop, the first of its kind in the area.

Previously cancer patients undergoing treatment at King’s Mill had to travel to Nottingham or Chesterfield to take part in a masterclass.

The classes are led by beauty consultants who volunteer their time. They guide women through a specifically designed skincare and make-up regime, including techniques to help draw on missing eyelashes and eyebrows.

Each lady who attends is given a bag full of make-up and skin care goodies specific to their colouring from Look Good Feel Better.

They are shown how best to use the products in their bags throughout the session.

Sian McNamara, 56, of Skegby, who has just finished undergoing treatment for cancer at King’s Mill and attended the masterclass, said: “I went along because I lost my confidence while undergoing treatment and I saw this session as a pick-me-up. I also liked the idea of learning new techniques.

“It’s good that this new service is right on my doorstep as I wouldn’t have been able to travel far for it.

“If people are receiving treatment for cancer they often feel unwell and lack energy so travelling far is the last thing they want to do.

“I would absolutely recommend this masterclass to any other ladies who are in a similar position to me.

“It’s nice to have a place to meet, even if it’s just for a chat with people who share a similar experience to you.”

Hannah Craig, 36 of Mansfield Woodhouse, who also attended the first session and is part-way through chemotherapy for breast cancer, added: “I’ve had a lovely day at the masterclass.

“I feel like I’m coping quite well with my treatment but wanted to attend for a boost and also to learn more about applying make-up around my eyes.

“I think I will lose my eyelashes next because of my treatment, but I’ve picked up some tips.”

Lead cancer nurse at King’s Mill, Penny Tindall, said: “We know our patients very much value being able to access services local to home.

“It’s hard enough having to attend hospital for cancer treatment regularly and can be even more difficult if you have to travel a distance.

“The workshop is a good opportunity for ladies to take some ‘me time’ and learn new skills and techniques, something they can enjoy with other people who are having similar experiences.

“This is just the first of a number of workshops that we are running throughout the year.

“We look forward to welcoming even more ladies to our next sessions.”

Look Good Feel Better regional manager Sarah Addis added: “This is an invaluable local service for ladies who would otherwise have to travel a fair way to get to another session.

“It’s two hours of fun, playing with make-up, learning new tips and techniques, and hopefully making new friends.”
More masterclasses with Look Good Feel Better are set to take place in June, September, October and November.

If you are going through cancer treatment and are interested in attending a future masterclass, contact King’s Mill Hospital on 01623 622515 and ask to be put through to the Welcome Treatment Centre.

Penny Tindall, lead cancer nurse at King’s Mill Hospital; Sarah Addis, regional manager at Look Good Feel Better; and Jo Gregg, Macmillan cancer information and support manager at the hospital.