We are working with the NHS to help our guests in their understanding and awareness of cancer-related issues. A recent grant (awarded to us by Gloucestershire Community Foundation in conjunction with NHS ICB) will help us to enhance our guests’ awareness, access and trust in cancer screening services. Our guests often face health inequalities, including higher risks of late-stage cancer diagnosis. Cancer outcomes are dramatically worse for people who are diagnosed late, and marginalised groups are most at risk.

Two of our Guest Coordinators attended a briefing session last year, gaining information and advice to help us plan what works most effectively for us as a charity, and most importantly, how we can help our guests and reduce fear, stigma and obstacles. This week, we have a visit from a specialist Cancer nurse to talk with our guests and answer some of their questions.  This is just one of the areas we will be working on, as well as having open conversations with our guests about their concerns, giving out leaflets on what is available to them and working with other NHS professionals to assist our guests with appointments, screening and general information to improve cancer awareness.