Cancer Reform Strategy

CLIC Sargent response to Cancer Reform Strategy First Annual Report released by National Cancer Director.

Dr Carole Easton, Chief Executive of CLIC Sargent says:

“CLIC Sargent welcomes the progress made through the Cancer Reform Strategy, particularly by the National Cancer Survivorship Initiative in improving support for all people living with and beyond cancer.

“From day one after their diagnosis, children and young people see themselves as cancer survivors. They tell us that cancer is about ‘more than their illness’ and say they need all-round support to be able to live with and beyond their cancer.”

To mark the start of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (December), CLIC Sargent is calling for an end to the postcode lottery in vital services.  

As part of a wide review of community based services across the UK, the Charity is calling for a more consistent and coordinated approach to community based care and support for children and young people with cancer to ensure a smooth transition from hospital to home and independence.

Dr Carole Easton says: “We would like to see a system which responds to a child's complete needs - not just clinical but also emotional and educational. Every child and young person with cancer should have access to a fully integrated community care team of professionals, co-ordinated by a key worker (a trained children's cancer nurse) that would include a social worker, a GP, a children's community nurse and a teacher.”

ENDS

For more information please contact Zoe Grumbridge in the CLIC Sargent Press Office on: 020 8752 2833 or email: zoe.grumbridge@clicsargent.org.uk.