About Encore

YWCA Encore is a gentle exercise programme for women who have had breast cancer. It comprises an eight week course of specifically designed hydrotherapy and land-based exercises, healthy lifestyle information, relaxation and peer support.

A well as helping women rebuild flexibility and strength, it provides participants with the opportunity to share common experiences and concerns with other women who understand.

We aim to help you:

• improve mobility and flexibility in your arms and shoulders
• relieve any discomfort you may be experiencing as a result of surgery
• to reduce the risk of lymphoedema and manage the symptoms of existing lymphoedema
• laugh, relax and have fun

Read a letter of endorsement (PDF 44.8Kb) from Claire Doole, breast cancer recoverer, programme attendee and Certified Lymphoedema Therapist.

How Encore works

Programmes normally run along school term dates during the warmer months of Feb/Mar/Apr and Oct/Nov/Dec of each year.   To find the next programme in your area please call 0800 ENCORE (0800 362 673) or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Women attend the Encore Programme for two hours per week for eight weeks. The structured weekly sessions include gentle land-based exercises, hydrotherapy exercises and information, relaxation and peer support.    The water resistance exercises are gentle but effective, and the warm water relaxes and relieves affected muscles.

For the information sessions we access expert guest speakers from the local community who cover a range of subjects relevant to our participants; which may include breast cancer or healthy lifestyle topics.

Attendance is by enrolment only and GP, Oncologist or Breast Surgeon approval is required.

Download the Enrolment, Assessment and Medical Approval Forms (PDF, 175Kb). When printing, choose "print to both sides" option.