“We welcome the ambition set out in the new Cancer Plan and its focus on delivering a person-centred approach. Too often, we see the impact that delays, workforce pressures, and unequal access to services have on people’s physical and emotional wellbeing. This plan has the potential to make a real difference if it is delivered effectively and inclusively.”
“Cancer does not stop at diagnosis or treatment, people need ongoing, holistic support, and this is where charities play a crucial role. Sustainable funding and genuine partnership with the voluntary sector will be essential if the plan’s goals are to be fully realised.
“Advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment mean that more people are living longer with and beyond cancer, increasingly experiencing it as a long-term condition. While this is a positive achievement, it also brings new and complex challenges, including long-term side effects, ongoing health needs, and the emotional impact of living with uncertainty. Cancer support services are therefore not a short-term intervention, but a vital part of long-term care, helping people manage the lasting effects of cancer and maintain the best possible quality of life over time.
“For many, the impact of cancer continues long after treatment ends, affecting mental health, finances, relationships, and the ability to return to work or everyday life. Timely access to emotional, practical, and social support can reduce isolation, improve quality of life, and help people regain confidence and independence and maximise their wellbeing. Currently, we rely heavily on the generosity of individuals to fund the work we do across the region, and we’re extremely grateful to those that choose to make a regular donation or leave a gift in their Will. Without this generosity our reach would be significantly reduced.
“Listening to people affected by cancer and co-producing services with patients and carers must be a priority, with targeted action at a regional level will be key to ensuring no one is left behind.”