Breaking down the National Cancer Plan with Macmillan Cancer Support

The UK’s new National Cancer Plan sets out an ambitious vision for improving survival, speeding up diagnosis and transforming patient experience, but what will it take to turn those commitments into reality? 

For this episode of Health on the Line, Matthew Taylor is joined by Gemma Peters, chief executive of Macmillan Cancer Support, to discuss what the plan means for people living with cancer now and in the future. 

Drawing on Macmillan’s frontline insight, Gemma discusses the rising number of people affected by cancer, the importance of earlier diagnosis, and her enthusiasm for the introduction of personal care plans, which take greater stock of a patient’s needs and wishes.  

Together, they explore the opportunities the plan presents, the challenges of delivering more equitable outcomes, and the vital role charities and community organisations play alongside the NHS in cancer care.  

We also hear from Chloe Knight, head of EDI communications at the NHS Confederation. She discusses the Confederation’s work in tackling the racial inequalities that continue to negatively shape access, experience and outcomes for NHS staff and patients.