Teenage Cancer Trust's response to announcement that improvements to young people's cancer care to be included in the National Cancer Plan

For the last 12 months, our #AndYoungPeople campaign has urged the Government to ensure that young people with cancer aren’t overlooked in the Plan. This morning, the Department of Health and Social Care shared some details of what young people with cancer can expect to see when the National Cancer Plan launches tomorrow. 

This includes:

• Covering travel costs for children and young people with cancer to and from cancer care, a campaign led by our friends at Young Lives vs Cancer over the past decade
• Standardised mental health support for all young cancer patients during diagnosis, treatment and long-term follow-up
• Working towards earlier detection of cancer in young people and improved access to clinical trials 

Jules said:  “Cancer kills more young people in the UK than any other disease. By including a specific focus on young people with cancer, the National Cancer Plan for England has the potential to reduce the impact of this devastating disease. 

“We are pleased the Plan will look to improve access to clinical trials - a major issue for young people with cancer. Removing barriers that stop them accessing innovative new treatments could be a potential lifeline for some. 

“Nearly half of young people must visit the GP three or more times before referral, the most out of any age group. Our hope is that these new commitments will lead to faster diagnosis for young people with cancer which we know is so important to improving health outcomes, as well as catalyse greater access to vital psychosocial support. 

“We look forward to working with the Government to ensure the Plan achieves real and lasting change for young people with cancer.” 

We will be sharing our full response to the National Cancer Plan after its publication.