Saint Catherine’s and York Against Cancer team up to provide specialist lymphoedema care locally

Saint Catherine’s and York Against Cancer have teamed up to provide specialist lymphoedema care in York.

Lymphoedema is a long term condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues, due to lymphatic fluid accumulating. Lymphoedema develops when the lymphatic system (a network of channels and glands throughout the body that helps fight infection and remove excess fluid) does not work properly. It can sometimes develop due to cancer or cancer treatment. Unfortunately there is no cure for lymphoedema , but it is important that it is treated as early as possible, as it can get worse and become extremely uncomfortable.

For over 30 years, Saint Catherine’s hospice have offered treatments for their patients at their Wellbeing Centre in Scarborough to ease swelling and improve quality of life.

Now, with funding from York Against Cancer, Saint Catherine’s have been able to start a mobile lymphoedema clinic in York, ensuring patients in York have regular access to specialist care within their local community.

The clinic has been running fully since December 2025, operating twice a month, with a total capacity of 10 patient sessions per month. The majority of these sessions have been fully booked. Patient feedback continues to highlight the meaningful impact of the service.

One patient described the difference it has made as “indescribable,” explaining that they have more energy, can clearly see the benefits of treatment, and greatly appreciate receiving care closer to home without the burden of travel. They added that the service provides both practical help and a strong sense of reassurance, with regular professional contact acting as a “comfort blanket” and offering relief from a condition that can cause ongoing stress.

While feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, some patients have expressed a desire for more frequent clinics, reflecting both the demand for, quality and value of this vital service. This feedback also reflects the value of working collaboratively to meet local need.

Kath Sartain, Specialist Palliative Care Nurse Advisor at Saint Catherine’s, said: “Saint Catherine’s is delighted to partner with York Against Cancer to ensure that lymphoedema care is prioritised and readily available to patients across York. This collaboration represents an important step in improving access to vital services and supporting those living with the long-term effects of cancer.”

Andy Knowles, CEO of York Against Cancer, said: “At York Against Cancer, everything we do is driven by one purpose; to make a real difference for people and families in our community who are living with the impact of cancer. This partnership with Saint Catherine’s is a brilliant example of what becomes possible when two organisations align around that shared goal. On a recent visit to St. Catherine’s, I met Kath, their CEO, and the amazing team behind delivering this much needed service, the alignment on purpose and desired outcomes was clear to feel throughout our discussions. Knowing that people in York can continue to access specialist care closer to home, without the added stress and burden of travelling to Scarborough, is an easy decision to get involved with. The patient feedback speaks for itself, and we’re incredibly proud to have played a part in making this happen.”

Both Saint Catherine’s and York Against Cancer are excited about the potential for a deeper partnership moving forward, and the meaningful improvements they can continue to deliver for the people and families who rely on them.