In February 2022, the government set out its intentions to publish an ambitious 10-Year Cancer Plan for England. A year on and we, as part of One Cancer Voice, have launched a petition asking that the Prime Minister deliver world-class cancer services that were promised as soon as possible.
Last year on World Cancer Day, we joined the One Cancer Voice coalition of 60+ charities to support the government’s development of a 10-year cancer plan. As a group we presented 10 tests for the government to meet to ensure a successful and transformative Cancer Plan.
However, it has since been announced that the government will not be progressing with a dedicated cancer plan. Last month, Steve Barclay, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, revealed plans for a five-year Major Conditions Strategy of which cancer will be just one part.
Annwen Jones OBE Chief Executive at Target Ovarian Cancer, said:
Although we welcome the development of a new Major Conditions Strategy, and its plans for cancer services across the country, it falls short of the ambitious 10-year Cancer Plan that was previously outlined. A long-term commitment from the government is essential to delivering world class outcomes for everyone diagnosed with cancer – including ovarian cancer.
We cannot afford to wait any longer, which is why we are supporting this petition, in collaboration with One Cancer Voice, to insist that the Prime Minister take decisive steps to ensure a future, equally ambitious, long-term cancer strategy is still a priority for this government.
The petition is now live and will close on Tuesday 7 March.
Sign the petition now to join us in demanding action from the government.
