academy to teach qualified massage therapists how to help people affected by the illness.
Stephanie Quigley, who hopes it will allow trained masseurs and beauticians to expand their businesses.
She said: “People often tell our staff and volunteers they have been turned away from salons and spas because they have a history of cancer.
“This happens due to negative myths that surround the condition, which come as a result of misunderstanding cancer and the treatments that are commonly given.
“Cancer Support Scotland is passionate about changing these misconceptions so that people affected by the illness have improved access to complementary therapies.”
The fully accredited Federation of Holistic Therapies course offers a combination of online and practical training, with a diploma for those successfully completing it.
Stephanie said: “People will have the chance to discover the skills and knowledge to offer safe massage services for those both receiving or having completed oncology treatment.”
The charity believes those living with cancer will also benefit from more spas, salons and private practices learning the skills.
Stephanie added: “We hope businesses will recognise the opportunities the course can bring, as well as what they in return will be able to give to those facing or recovering from cancer.”