Cancer Care West is a registered Irish charity dedicated to ensuring that 'no one goes through cancer alone'. The Donegal Cancer Support Centre in Letterkenny, offers free, confidential practical and emotional support to adults affected by cancer — whether they are a patient, partner, family member or carer.
At this centre, a team of specialist support professionals provides a range of services designed to complement medical care, including one-to-one psychological counselling, psychosocial support, complementary therapies, wellness activities, and group workshops. There is also a welcoming ,drop-in service' where visitors can come in for information, a chat and a supportive environment.
Job Title: Exercise Physiologist
Role Purpose
The Exercise Physiologist will play a key role in supporting individuals affected by cancer to improve their physical health, functional capacity, quality of life, and overall wellbeing through evidence-based exercise interventions. Working within a multidisciplinary cancer support team, the post holder will assess patients' needs, develop individualized exercise programmes, deliver group exercise classes, and provide ongoing guidance and motivation throughout the cancer journey, including during and after treatment.
Key Responsibilities
Patient Assessment and Programme Development
- Conduct comprehensive exercise and functional assessments for individuals affected by cancer.
- Review medical histories, treatment-related considerations, physical limitations, and patient goals to ensure safe exercise participation.
- Design, implement, and monitor individualized exercise programmes tailored to each participant's health status, treatment stage, abilities, and preferences.
- Modify exercise prescriptions as required based on patient progress, symptoms, treatment changes, or clinical recommendations.
- Maintain accurate records of assessments, exercise plans, progress notes, and outcome measures.
- Develop and expand the Exercise Programme in conjunction with the Clinical Services Manager / Cancer Support Centre Manager / Exercise Physiologist – Cancer Care West Galway
Exercise Class Instruction
- Plan, deliver, and evaluate safe and effective group exercise classes for individuals affected by cancer.
- Provide instruction across a range of exercise modalities, which may include aerobic exercise, strength training, flexibility, balance, and functional movement programmes.
- Ensure exercises are appropriately adapted to accommodate varying levels of fitness, treatment-related side effects, and physical limitations.
- Monitor participants during sessions, ensuring safety and adherence to best practice guidelines.
- Foster a supportive, inclusive, and motivating environment that encourages participation and confidence.
Patient Education and Support
- Educate patients on the benefits of physical activity during and after cancer treatment.
- Provide guidance on exercise safety, symptom management, fatigue reduction, and long-term healthy lifestyle behaviours.
- Support participants in setting realistic goals and maintaining motivation to engage in regular physical activity.
- Promote self-management strategies that empower individuals to continue exercising independently.
Programme Evaluation and Development
- Collect and analyse programme outcome data to demonstrate effectiveness and support service improvement.
- Contribute to the development and enhancement of exercise services within the charity.
- Assist in developing educational materials, exercise resources, and health promotion initiatives.
- Support research, audit, and quality improvement activities where appropriate.
Work Location: In person
