Young Lives vs Cancer welcomes NHS England’s service specification for children’s cancer services

Today, Thursday 11 November 2021, NHS England has launched  their awaited service specification for children’s cancer services in England.

Helen McShane, Director of Services at Young Lives vs Cancer says: “Here at Young Lives vs Cancer, we work hard to put the needs of children and young people at the heart of what we do every day. That’s why we welcome today’s launch of NHS England’s service specification for children’s cancer services in England.

“Service specifications define the standard of care that should be delivered in children and young people’s cancer services. Young Lives vs Cancer has helped to shape the design of these services alongside clinicians, experts and patients.

“Once implemented by the NHS in England, the service specifications will provide better access to clinical trials and improved psychological support as well as improved access to paediatric oncology shared care units.

“We are also pleased that NHS England has said that children’s cancer services must now have access to onsite intensive care. This means that children and their families do not have to travel to a different location for intensive care, which can be a frightening and stressful experience, and that the child’s consultant and medical team is always on hand to discuss important treatment and care with the family throughout the patients’ journey.

“However, we do recognise some hospitals may be impacted by this change. Young Lives vs Cancer is committed to ensuring that our social workers will continue to support families, wherever they receive their treatment.

“While we are disappointed our call for a Young Cancer Patient Travel Fund to help families face the financial cost of getting their child to life-saving treatment was not considered, today’s announcement is a welcome step forward for children and young people with cancer. We will continue to support families and work closely with our NHS partners as these changes are implemented and will continue to stress the importance of publishing the TYA service specifications as soon as possible.”