An exercise programme for cancer survivors, which has been running in Bournemouth for more than 10 years, has been highly-commended at this year’s prestigious ukactive Awards.

The BACSP (Bournemouth After Cancer Survivorship Programme), which supports people diagnosed with and recovering from cancer to improve their wellbeing, rebuild strength, and regain confidence through physical activity received the accolade in the Healthier Communities Category.

Delivered by BH Live’s health and wellbeing team at the Littledown Centre and BH Live Active, Corfe Mullen in conjunction with local health partners, the BACSUP programme continues to make a meaningful difference to people’s lives in the local community.

The scheme receives an average of 200 Cancer Rehabilitation referrals every year via local NHS hospitals. Judges praised the passion BH Live demonstrated in their presentation, to show the positive impact the Cancer Rehabilitation Programme continues to have on the lives of those taking part.

The Healthier Communities Award celebrates organisations that inspire more people to make physical activity and wellbeing part of everyday life, recognising initiatives that demonstrate meaningful community engagement, respond to local needs, and deliver measurable outcomes for the communities they serve.

On behalf of BH Live, Viv Galpin, Bournemouth Health and Wellbeing Manager, shared;

"This commendation at the ukactive Awards is something we're incredibly proud of. The acknowledgement is also a big thank you to everyone involved in delivering our Cancer Rehabilitation Programme, as well as the incredible courage and commitment of the participants themselves.

"The programme is about much more than exercise. It provides people with a supportive environment where they can improve their wellbeing, build confidence, and connect with others who understand the challenges they are facing. We're delighted to see its impact recognised on a national level."

Rob Cunningham, Director of Leisure and Business Development at BH Live, added:

"Being recognised by ukactive is a fantastic achievement for our teams and a testament to the positive difference our health and wellbeing programmes make within local communities.

"We are committed to creating welcoming, inclusive opportunities that help people become more active and improve their overall wellbeing. Receiving a Highly Commended accolade highlights the dedication, expertise, and passion of our colleagues, partners, and participants who help make these programmes such a success."

As a registered charity and social enterprise, BH Live operates leisure centres and activity programmes across Dorset and Hampshire, working with local authority partners to improve health outcomes and reduce barriers to participation in physical activity. Through a range of inclusive health and wellbeing initiatives, the organisation continues to support people of all ages and abilities to lead healthier, more active lives.

The ukactive Awards celebrate excellence across the physical activity, leisure, and fitness sector, recognising organisations and initiatives that are helping to improve the health of the nation.

For more information about BH Live's health and wellbeing programmes, visit bhliveactive.org.uk.