Get A-Head has always believed in the power of collaboration to deliver better treatment and outcomes for all patients.
So we were delighted to play a part in the recent campaign led by the Daily Express newspaper to ensure every cancer patient receives a Personalised Cancer Plan to help them cope with the psychological impact of a diagnosis.
We’re even more pleased to see that the government has now announced the introduction of the plans as part of its overarching National Cancer Plan.
Our director Danni Heath said: “It’s a brilliant result for patients up and down the country and one which will help a great many people in the years to come.
“There has been far too little mental health support for patients diagnosed with cancer for too long. This success will change that.
“A crucial part of our role as a cancer charity is to advocate for better treatment and outcomes on behalf of all patients. The success of campaigns such as this shows just what we can achieve when we collaborate together.”
Danni was one of the signatories of a letter calling for the move sent to Health Secretary Wes Streeting – who himself was treated for kidney cancer in 2021. The letter said:
“The Daily Express has joined forces with cancer charities and campaigners to call for every NHS cancer patient to receive a Holistic Needs Assessment, and for these assessments to be regularly updated as their treatment progresses.
“Mental health issues are a main side-effect of all cancers, with patients forced to deal with a new, very uncertain reality, but medical teams don’t ask their patients about them. This must change, and they must be made a focal point of the Holistic Needs Assessment.
“We also want patients to be routinely asked about their mental health and wellbeing during consultations with their medical team, so they can be directed to help with any issues they are experiencing – whether from low-level support, such as a walking group to combat loneliness, or a referral to an oncology psychologist for patients experiencing extreme distress.”
The Daily Express also highlighted a story we shared last year about Claire Barbery as part of the campaign.
In Claire’s case, she nearly cancelled the hospital appointment that led to her diagnosis of olfactory neuroblastoma – a rare cancer that develops in the upper part of the nasal cavity.
She said: “The NHS does brilliant work, but my cancer journey highlighted a gap that desperately needs addressing: the need for emotional and mental health support to go hand in hand with physical treatment.
“I think it’s fair to say the mental toll of my diagnosis and treatment was something I had to manage mostly on my own with my family.
“Being asked directly more often about my mental wellbeing and having the chance to talk more openly during treatment would have made such a difference – and I know I’m not alone in feeling this way.”
Mr Streeting said: “The Express campaign has highlighted the mental health challenges many cancer patients face, and the need to ensure they are supported in all areas of life.
“We have listened, and the NHS will now provide a personalised cancer plan for every patient, including mental health support for every patient who’s struggling. Care doesn’t stop when treatment ends.”
