Oncology Massage and Reflexology Diploma FAQ’s

Are your courses accredited?

Yes, our courses are accredited by the Federation of Holistic Therapists so you should have no problem adding them to your insurance.

 Do I need any previous qualifications or experience?

Yes, you need to provide certificate evidence of your level 3 or equivalent qualification, it is also preferred that you have at least 6 months experience as a practising therapist.

 What do I need to do to pass the course?

You will need to attend two full days training at the hospice, where you will complete written multiple-choice questions and a practical assessment on each other before completing 2 case studies on people that have or have had cancer.

How will I complete my case studies?

We can offer you the opportunity to complete the practical case studies at the hospice for you to gain vital in-house experience, for this you will be required to have a DBS check and complete some short online training. If you can source your own models you can complete the case studies independently. We ask that you ensure your liability insurance covers you to complete case studies.

What if I struggle with the theory part of the course?

Our educator is extremely approachable and supportive and will help you to learn in the best way to suit your needs.

 What support is there upon completion of the course?

We would love to support you by giving you a chance to work as a volunteer with our patients and carers here at the hospice.

 Why do I need an oncology qualification?

When a person is diagnosed with cancer it affects them both physically and psychologically, the treatments they go through can be very damaging to the body leaving it tender and sensitive.

These patients/clients would not usually be allowed to access therapy treatments as therapists are not covered under their normal insurance.

Completing training in oncology treatments allows you to use a light touch therapy method to provide a safe, relaxing and beneficial treatment for them without causing damage.

Why do I need my own insurance?

To complete the case studies, you will need to treat real models, this means your existing insurance must cover you to perform case studies.

When will I get my certificate of completion for the course?

You will receive your certificate of completion for the course once you have submitted the case studies and our educator has marked them. If you have any difficulty completing these our educator is available to offer support and guidance during the 2 days and via email while you are completing the case studies.

Will I be giving and receiving massage?

Yes, the courses include hands-on practical sessions, which will enable you to feel the difference in the type of pressure you need to apply for oncology treatments, we feel this is a very important part of the course.

 Why do spa and salon treatments matter to cancer patients?

People with cancer enjoy the benefits of massage and reflexology that all our clients enjoy and shouldn’t miss out because they have or are recovering from cancer. As we know it helps people feel good and is a way people can help themselves relax and cope with stress, anxiety, headaches and pain. They can also help lift people’s mood, improve sleep and enhance their wellbeing.

What should I bring with me?

Students should bring a pen/pencil, paper and either their own lunch or money to buy lunch. All equipment and complementary therapy products will be provided for your use.

 What should I wear?

Loose/comfortable and short sleeved clothing should be worn with no hanging tassels. There is the usual risk of oils that you use during the day getting on your clothing so wear clothing that you won’t mind getting oil on. Hair should be tied back if long, and nails should be short, clean and free of varnish. Nail extensions are not suitable for oncology massage due to hygiene. There is a changing room to change if required.

Should I do an online course instead?

The practical teaching this course offers allows you to experience and practise the level of light touch needed for oncology patients. We highly recommend the hands-on training that we offer giving you face to face access to your educator for training and support.

Is your educator fully qualified to teach me?

Our educator holds a teaching qualification and is an expert in her field, she has professional qualifications in the subject area and years of experience. As well as fantastic tuition you will also receive fantastic aftercare when needed and ongoing help with any questions you may come across in the future from the course tutor.

Can I obtain professional insurance after the course?

Our oncology courses are accredited by the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) which is a professional industry awarding body. Qualifications accredited by them are covered by most insurance companies. You also could join them as a member and keep up to date with the industry as well as receive insurance discounts.

Where will the course take place?

The course will be held within the outpatient department at Wirral Hospice St John’s, Mount Road, Higher Bebington, Wirral. CH63 6JE.

Where can I park?

Our address is Wirral Hospice St John’s, Mount Rd, Higher Bebington, Wirral CH63 6JE and we are based on the Clatterbridge Hospital Site.

There are various Public Car Parks available with the nearest one being Car Park K. Please be aware that some of the machines will only accept coinage.

Car Park Fees (2025)

• All Car Parks first 30 minutes – Free
• 30 minutes to 2 hours – £3.20
• 2 hours to 4 hours – £4.50
• 4 hours to 6 hours – £5.50
• 6 hours to 12 hours – £7.00
• 24 hours – £10.00
• Lost Ticket – £10.00

If you already have a parking fob for the Clatterbridge or Wirral University Teaching Hospital you will be able to park onsite in Car Park R.

Can I get to the hospice using public transport?

By Bus:

Merseytravel – 16, 17

Arriva – 410, 487

By Train

The nearest station is Spital station on the Merseyrail network which is 1.5m from the hospice. Please visit Merseyrail for more information

Is food provided or is there a canteen?

We will provide drinks during the coffee breaks.

The hospice has a café where you can buy a selection of hot foods, sandwiches, salads and cakes. Alternatively, you may want to bring your own lunch.

What are the timings for the course?

The course will start at 9.30am and aim to finish at 4.30pm Each day. There will be coffee & lunch breaks during the day.

Will the course be carried out on the dates advertised?

The course dates are subject to a minimum number of attendees to allow us to run the course. If we do not get enough people wanting to attend the course to cover our costs we may have to rearrange the dates. If this happens we will notify anyone that has applied for the course to give the option to withdraw or accept the new dates.

For more information please email education@wirralhospice.org or call 0151 334 2778 and ask for learning and development