Complementary therapies improving health and wellbeing outcomes for victims and survivors

As part of the celebrations for National Complementary Therapy Week 2026, this article celebrates complementary therapies and how they can help with people who are victims and survivors. Around 80% of individuals who engage with complementary therapies, through VSS and our community partners, report an improvement in their health and wellbeing.

Complementary therapies, traditionally offered in conjunction with conventional healthcare, help people manage symptoms, reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing. They include therapies such as massage, reflexology and aromatherapy.

VSS is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of victims and survivors by ensuring support and services are:

·         trauma‑informed, compassionate and needs‑based

·         connected and safe

Providing access to complementary therapies is one-way VSS delivers on this commitment. In the past year, over 3,550 people have accessed complementary therapies, either directly through VSS or through our community partners.

Community Partner Client:

“I’ve found the complementary therapies hugely beneficial, particularly with helping me relax and manage my pain. This support means I can continue to enjoy my hobbies.”

For some victims and survivors, complementary therapies form part of a wider package of support. For others, these therapies provide an additional option when they are exploring ways to support their wellbeing. Find out more about complementary therapies and which of our partners can support you to access these services here: Complementary Therapies – Victims and Survivors Service