Cancer JSNA

What is being done and why

Nationally

NHS Cancer Programme (2025 Update)

The NHS Cancer Programme is focused on improving early diagnosis and patient experience

  • Early Diagnosis: Now at 58.7%, up 2.8% since 2019, with major gains in lung cancer screening.
  • Lung Cancer Screening Expansion: Targeting 1.2 million more people in 2025–26.
  • Patient and Public Voice (PPV): Permanent forum influencing programme design and delivery.
  • Cancer Patient Experience Survey (CPES): Used to guide service improvements.
  • Community-Based Testing: Shifting care from hospital to home and community settings.

National Cancer Plan (2025)

The Department of Health and Social Care is shaping a new National Cancer Plan based on public and expert input:

  • Focus Areas:
    • Prevention
    • Access
    • Early diagnosis
    • Treatment
    • Living with and beyond cancer
    • Research and innovation
  • Cancer Vaccine Launchpad: Exploring new immunotherapy options.
  • Patient Empowerment: Improving communication and decision-making support.

Help Us Help You Campaign

The Department of Health & Social Care re-launched the campaign in January 2025 to address the key barriers to people seeking help, the fear around cancer diagnosis and the importance of body awareness to identify changes that could be a sign of cancer.

Regionally

The North East and North Cumbria Cancer Alliance coordinates regional efforts:

  • Rapid Diagnostic Centres (RDCs): For faster diagnosis of vague symptoms.
  • Targeted Lung Health Checks: Mobile units in high-risk areas.
  • Community Engagement: Working with local groups to raise awareness and reduce inequalities.
  • Workforce Development: Training programmes for GPs and nurses in cancer detection.

Locally

Hartlepool is served by the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, which supports cancer care through:

  • University Hospital of Hartlepool: Offers outpatient oncology services and diagnostics.
  • Partnerships with Cancer Alliance: Access to regional screening and diagnostic programmes.
  • Local Support Services: Collaboration with Macmillan and other charities for patient and carer support.
  • Community Navigation Services: Helping patients access care and support across health and social services.