Cancer Focus NI’s response to the Draft Programme for Government Consultation 2024-2027
In keeping with the charity’s first strategic objective, “To Be Your Local Cancer Voice,” Cancer Focus Northern Ireland has submitted a response to the consultation for the Draft Programme for Government 2024-2027.
Focusing on Priorities 3 (“Cut Health Waiting Times”) and 9 (“Reform and Transformation of Public Services”), the charity emphasised the importance of these priorities for cancer. Per recent NI Cancer Waiting Times, only a third of cancer patients are starting treatment within 62 days of an urgent GP referral for suspect cancer, compared to a target of 95% starting treatment in that timeframe. For the 38 people diagnosed with cancer each day, these delays can translate to increased health risks.
“We are really glad to see that the NI Executive recognises the urgent need to reduce our health waiting times, and that they have made it the priority it is,” comments Emily Bishko, Policy & Public Affairs Officer at Cancer Focus Northern Ireland. “Along with this, we are encouraged that they have made Transformation another priority – we will not be able to reduce our waiting times and move toward a more sustainable service without it.
“Of course, this Programme for Government is just a starting point. We still need to see these words turned into action, and we need this action to be decided in collaboration with clinicians, patients, and the third sector. Still, we welcome the inclusion of these priorities and hope they will provide an impetus for service resourcing and improvement.”
Read the consultation response from Cancer Focus NI here.
Further reading:
- Cancer Waits in 2023: A Year in Review – Cancer Focus Northern Ireland
- Cancer Focus Northern Ireland releases their Manifesto for the 2024 UK General Election
- Local cancer charity welcomes new breast cancer initiatives in light of “unacceptable” diagnostic delays
Have a cancer policy issue you are looking to discuss? Contact our Policy & Public Affairs team at policy@cancerfocusni.org. Or, for general cancer inquiries and support service signposting, reach out to our Nurseline at 0800 783 3339 (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9am – 1pm)
