Using virtual reality to prepare for radiotherapy

What’s the project about?

Researchers in Sheffield are working to improve people’s experience of radiotherapy for breast cancer. They want to make radiotherapy more comfortable for people, and help them feel more prepared.

They’re developing a virtual reality (VR) system which people can use before getting radiotherapy. This will help them feel prepared for radiotherapy and know more about the position they will be in during treatment. This could help them feel more empowered, and have a better experience.

They’re holding a workshop in Sheffield for people affected by breast cancer to hear what they’d need from the system.

Who’s organising it?

Name of project lead: Wu Panzifan

Job title: Research fellow

Organisation: Sheffield Hallam University

Email address: w.panzifan@shu.ac.uk

Who can take part?

You can take part if you’ve had a personal diagnosis of breast cancer and have had radiotherapy as part of your treatment.

You need to be able to travel to Sheffield for the workshop.

Why do you want me to be involved?

By taking part you can help the researchers understand what information and support would be useful for people before radiotherapy. You’ll also help shape what the final VR system is like, so that it can best help patients prepare for radiotherapy and feel more in control.

What will you ask me to do?

The researchers would like you to join a 2-hour in-person workshop in Sheffield with up to 9 other people. Possible dates for the workshops are:

• Monday 8 June from 11am to 1pm, or 1pm to 3pm
• Monday 15 June from 2pm to 4pm
• Monday 22 June from 10am to 12pm (noon)

At the workshop, you’ll have the chance to discuss what you would have found helpful when preparing for radiotherapy. Through discussion and co-design activities, you’ll also input into what the VR system should look like, and how much patients should be able to personalise it.

How do I get involved?

To get involved, or to ask any question, please email the project lead at w.panzifan@shu.ac.uk. They’ll then be in touch with more information and to set a date for the workshop.

When’s the deadline?

4 June 2026