The project
This project has been designed by Dr Phillipa Lally and Sairah Bi and is about working with young adults aged 18–39 who have experienced cancer to develop a supportive programme to improve body image. Cancer treatments can change how people look and feel about their bodies, which can affect confidence and quality of life. The project will co-design an intervention that combines physical activity, self-kindness (self-compassion), and social support.
What are they going to do?
They will work with young adults aged 18–39 who have experienced cancer, alongside a healthcare professional and a physical activity trainer, to co-design a supportive programme. This will be done through a series of online workshops where participants help shape the content, format and delivery. The programme will combine physical activity, self-compassion practices and opportunities for social support, with a focus on creating a low-cost, practical intervention that could be used in routine cancer care.
Why is this research important?
People with pancreatic cancer often experience major physical and emotional changes due to the disease and its treatment, which can affect how they feel about their bodies, confidence, and overall wellbeing. Support for these issues is limited, particularly for younger adults. By working directly with people affected by cancer to design a supportive programme, this project ensures that the resulting intervention reflects real needs and experiences. The outcomes could lead to a practical, low-cost approach that improves wellbeing, supports recovery, and enhances quality of life for people living with pancreatic cancer.
How to get involved
Dr Phillipa and Sairah are looking for young adults aged 18–39 who have been diagnosed with cancer, including pancreatic cancer, and who have experienced concerns about their body image or wellbeing to take part in their online focus group.
No scientific background or prior experience is needed to take part in this opportunity.
Next steps
If you would like to join the focus group, please contact Sairah Bi (sb01908@surrey.ac.uk) quoting the involvement reference ‘PCUK RIN involvement’.
