Young Lives vs Cancer responds to UK Government confirming a National Cancer Plan

The UK Government have today (Thursday 31 October) announced that they will publish a National Cancer Plan for England.

In response to the announcement, Rachel Kirby-Rider, Chief Executive at Young Lives vs Cancer said: “This is the news we’ve been waiting for – the UK Government has confirmed a National Cancer Plan will be published, following from the 10-Year Plan for Health.

“A National Cancer Plan will set us on the path to transform outcomes and experiences for those living with cancer. But crucially, the Plan must meet the distinct needs of children and young people with cancer – reflecting their unique experiences with objectives to improve their outcomes.

“We hope the UK Government will work with us to ensure children and young people get the focus they need and deserve within the Plan – they cannot be left behind.

“Together with CCLG, we’ve been calling for a cancer plan that supports children and young people’s unique needs, and together with our charity partners, we’re ready to support the UK Government to deliver on the priorities and changes they need to see.”

The UK Government are currently consulting on their 10-Year Plan for Health, due to be published in Spring 2025, with a National Cancer Plan to follow on from this.

Cancer is still the biggest killer by disease of children and young people under 25 in the UK, and their needs and experiences are distinct.

Young Lives vs Cancer and CCLG have developed a Children and Young People’s Cancer Plan which includes key priority areas which should be addressed and implemented to improve experiences and outcomes for children and young people with cancer.

Together, we have been calling for a plan that meets children and young people’s needs, and have had regular discussions with the Department of Health and Social Care. We’re pleased the calls for a Plan have been heard and hope to see these needs met through the National Cancer Plan. We’re ready to continue working in partnership to deliver the strategy and change needed.