Sarah Quinlan MBE, director of Radiotherapy UK, reflects on World Cancer Day 2025 and the power of campaigning.
World Cancer Day 2025 was a big day for Radiotherapy UK and our CatchUpWithCancer campaign.
We believe in bringing the stark reality of cancer treatment waits in the UK to the decision-makers, and last Tuesday, we did just that. Our impactful video installation outside Westminster highlighted a shocking statistic: over the past decade, 500,000 cancer patients have waited too long for treatment. Urgent change is needed now to avoid another decade of unacceptable waiting times and poor outcomes.
We were joined by other cancer charities, patients, frontline workers, and industry representatives, all united in our mission to improve patient care. Also with us was our charismatic patron and footballing legend, Bryan Robson OBE, who generously dedicated his time and energy to support our cause.
Our street activism was followed by an MP drop-in session, where over 100 MPs learned about the solutions radiotherapy offers to the current cancer crisis. Alongside Bryan Robson OBE, Pat Price and Mark Lawler, we delivered a letter signed by MPs to 10 Downing Street, urging the government to implement a cancer plan that truly delivers for patients.
The day concluded with APPG-Radiotherapy Chair, Tim Farron MP, leading a parliamentary debate in which the government committed to working with Radiotherapy UK and other organisations to include radiotherapy in the national cancer plan. This is a significant step forward to ensure early cancer treatment plays as important a role as early diagnosis and research.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to support our work. Together, we can keep making a difference!
