It can be difficult to feel hopeful after a cancer diagnosis. The Macmillan HOPE Programme is a free six-session self-management course designed to help people living with and beyond cancer manage the emotional, psychological and practical challenges they may face. In this blog, we explain how the programme works and share messages of hope from members of our Online Community.
“my mind is all over, but throughout I’ve help on to hope and positivity, kept moving and address each challenge as it arrives. So I’m sending hope and love to everyone going through this, and anyone caring for someone too - you’re all amazing.”
“To everyone currently going through treatment, waiting for scan results, living with stage 4 or supporting someone you love — I’m sending you so much love and strength. Keep going. Take it one day at a time. And hold on to hope.”
Who is the Macmillan HOPE Programme for?
The programme is designed for adults living with and beyond cancer who would like support managing the emotional and practical impact of cancer. Whether you are currently in treatment, recovering from treatment or adjusting to life after cancer, the course may help you build confidence and develop practical coping strategies.
What the Programme Is
The Macmillan HOPE Programme (Help Overcome Problems Effectively) is a free self-management course. HOPE is a structured course that runs over six sessions. It’s designed alongside individuals who have personal experience with cancer. The course is grounded in positive psychology, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It creates a safe space for people to move from medical treatment back into normal life and take back control.
How It Helps
The programme provides valuable tools to help participants manage the day-to-day impacts of cancer. The sessions empower individuals to handle common ongoing struggles. Key topics include:
Participants can benefit from interacting with people in similar situations. They can establish meaningful connections that reduce isolation often felt after treatment ends.
How to Access It
The HOPE programme is accessible across the UK and is completely free of charge. There are a couple of ways to sign up:
To register your interest or find upcoming course dates, you can visit the Macmillan HOPE Programme Page.
"I feel much more in touch with how I am feeling and with setting boundaries so that I can interact and connect with others without feeling overwhelmed."
- Online HOPE programme participant
"I feel like I've been given the tools to heal mentally and spiritually. I was stuck in the moment of my diagnosis and couldn't get past it, despite the relentless merry-go-round of treatment. I feel a bit more in control now."
- Online HOPE programme participant
Other avenues of support
Please remember that our other Macmillan Support Services are here for you too. Our nurses and support advisers are available every day from 8am to 8pm. You can call 0808 808 00 00, email, or use live webchat. Whether you have a question or just need someone to listen, we’re here for you.
You can also use our ask an expert forum to get trusted information and support from experienced professionals. Our Cancer Information Nurse Specialists can answer questions about treatment, side effects and what to expect. You can also speak with our Information and Support Advisers, who are here to help with the emotional, practical and financial impact of cancer — especially helpful when you’re dealing with things on your own.
