If Labour want to get serious about cancer, they must embed one thing in NHS | UK | News
With over six million new cases of cancer predicted by 2040, the need for better care and support is becoming more urgent every day. The government’s upcoming cancer plan is a unique opportunity to usher in a new era of cancer care. This should be a period that can improve prevention, early diagnosis and waiting times, but most importantly, it should not ignore the emotional and practical support people need at every stage of cancer. In the year since the plan was announced, we have called on the Government to include Maggie’s model of support into NHS cancer care and we are proud to support the Express’ fantastic campaign to prioritize mental health in cancer care.
Integrating our support into NHS cancer care will mean everyone facing cancer gets the support they need from day one. There are challenges at every stage, but our Getting Started initiative ensures people get information about how treatment works and what side effects to expect, as well as advice on the benefits of nutrition and gentle exercise, leaving them feeling stronger and better prepared for further treatment.
People also experience difficulty when treatment ends; Many people feel abandoned when months of regular appointments and check-ups suddenly come to an end. Our six-week program Where Now? This course helps people adjust to life after cancer, covering physical activity, relationships, long-term side effects and returning to work.
Olu, 57, who is living with prostate cancer and is a regular visitor to our Royal Marsden Maggie center in Sutton, described Maggie’s as a place that was “deeply supportive” and “felt safe”.
Olu also said that coming to Maggie’s when she was at her worst prevented her from “taking time off from work or using other healthcare services.”
Time and time again, we see people walk through our doors broken and anxious, and each time, we give them the tools they need to overcome the effects of cancer—whether it’s physical side effects, work, relationships, or financial concerns.
We want to continue to grow our 27 centers across the UK and ensure no one faces cancer alone.
Maggie’s is ready to help the government and the NHS by doing what we do best: providing free expert emotional and practical support to people affected by cancer.
