Local MP Tim Farron has met with the chair of the influential Commons Health and Social Care Committee to gather support for his campaign for radiotherapy services to be easily accessible for all cancer patients.
In his role as the chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Radiotherapy, Tim made the case to Sarah Wollaston for extra investment into radiotherapy treatment.
Around 25% of people in the UK will need radiotherapy treatment at some point in their lifetime, but radiotherapy currently only receives 5% of the NHS cancer treatment budget.
Sarah agreed that the committee would consider putting Tim’s calls into their pre-budget submission to the Chancellor ahead of the Autumn Statement.
Tim said: “I had a very encouraging meeting with Sarah where I explained how radiotherapy had become the Cinderella service when it comes to cancer treatment.
“The continued lack of investment also means accessibility continues to be a big issue with people who live in remote, rural areas like here in the South Lakes being forced to take lengthy and expensive trips to reach their nearest treatment centre.
“There are serious consequences to this underinvestment, with cancer survival rates in the UK continuing to be well below the European average.
“Sarah was very supportive to our cause and I’m really pleased that the committee will consider including it into their pre-budget submission – this is another big step forward for our campaign.”
