National Cancer Plan · 62-Day Waiting Standard

England is falling short
of its cancer target

The government has committed to ensuring 85% of cancer patients begin treatment within 62 days of referral — by March 2029. Here's where we stand.

Current performance (Dec 2025)
71.9%
Of patients treated within
62 days of referral
Government target
85%
To be achieved by
March 2029
Gap to close
13.1pp
Percentage points still
to gain — in 39 months
Time remaining to March 2029 deadline
— Months
— Weeks
— Days
— Hours
— Minutes
March 2029 National Cancer Plan deadline
The clock is ticking for Catch Up With Cancer

Email your MP now to ask them to support faster cancer treatment and ensure every patient gets the care they need within 62 days.

Email Your MP