The launch of the National Cancer Plan and What It Means for Young People with Cancer

This is an important step forward. The plan recognises the realities faced by young people, and those diagnosed with rare and less common cancers.

Today is a significant moment for everyone affected by cancer.

Not only is it World Cancer Day, but we’re also welcoming the publication of bold and ambitious National Cancer Plan and for the first time, a dedicated section on Children and Young People.

This is an important step forward. The plan recognises the realities faced by young people, and those diagnosed with rare and less common cancers. We’re particularly encouraged to see a clear commitment to improve access to psychosocial support, an area that has long been inconsistent despite national standards.

At the Ella Dawson Foundation, this is the heart of what we do.
We’re proud to be the only non‑NHS organisation providing specialist clinical psychology for young adults aged 18–30, offering personalised, high‑quality support within two weeks of referral.

Young people deserve care that sees the whole person, as more than their diagnosis through personalised care helping improve their wellbeing, and their futures.

This plan is a step towards that, and we’re ready to play our part.

We look forward to working with partners across the system to drive meaningful, lasting change so every young person can live well with and beyond cancer