Engaging with patients, residents, and staff about cancer

An essential part of the work of the cancer alliance is to talk directly to local people about their cancer experiences, concerns and understanding of local cancer services.

This really helps us to improve services and at the same time raise awareness of vital cancer information, such as signs and symptoms and life-saving cancer screening programmes.

To support this ongoing work, we have recently completed a series of engagement events, in partnership with Barts Health, at the following hospital sites:

• Royal London Hospital
• Whipps Cross Hospital
• St Bartholomew’s Hospital
• Newham University Hospital

Mark Warren, Group Director, Cancer & Diagnostics for Barts Health, said “Over the last few months at these events we have spoken to over 1,000 local people about cancer. This includes patients, residents, hospital staff and local partners.

“Even if just one person gets an earlier diagnosis, when cancer is easier to treat, or encourages a family member to get checked as a result of our conversation with them, it will have been worthwhile. Each time we host an event, we reach out to more people with potentially life-saving information.”

A patient story

Across the events we heard lots of heart-warming stories about cancer recovery and successful treatment. One example is Julie, who shared her story with us about her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. It highlighted the importance of getting checked and making sure you’re available for treatment and follow-up. You can read her story in full on our website.

Diane Gypps said “We are always looking to hear from people who have a cancer story to tell. Sharing these stories is very helpful to those who are going through a similar experience.

“We are currently working on expanding our group of patient and carer representatives and there are lots of opportunities to get involved, so please get in touch with us if you are interested.”

To apply for a voluntary patient or carer representative role, contact us today by email nelondonicb.pcvc@nhs.net or phone 07503 373 533.

Next steps

We are looking to do similar events with Homerton Healthcare and Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Trust, as well as repeat our events with Barts Health. We are also looking to work with local community groups and voluntary organisations.

If you are interested in us arranging a session to talk about cancer, please email Paul Thomas, our communications and engagement manager, at p.thomas6@nhs.net

For more information

Find out more about the latest work of the North East London Cancer Alliance, visit our webpages.

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