Teenage Cancer Trust responds to the Autumn Budget 2024

Stephen Ballard, Associate Director of Services at Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “We welcome the Government’s announcement to invest in the NHS, including extra funding for more scanners and radiotherapy machines so people can be diagnosed earlier. Today’s announcement must now be used as an opportunity to improve outcomes for teenagers and young adults with cancer.  

“The Government has committed to addressing the biggest killers in its Health Mission and the focus on cancer must address the unique needs of young people. Cancer kills more teenagers and young adults in the UK than any other disease, but at the moment, young people with cancer face inequalities when accessing cancer care.

“We know that young people have to see their GP more times than any other age group before they get a diagnosis, meaning many face potentially life-threatening delays to getting their cancer diagnosed and treated.

“The government should develop a specific public awareness campaign for cancers experienced by young people, to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms, building on campaigns such as Teenage Cancer Trust’s ‘Best to Check’ campaign.

“The government has the chance to drive change for a generation of young people with cancer and we welcome the opportunity to work with the government to ensure the needs of young people with cancer are met. ”

You can read the details of the Autumn Budget here: Autumn Budget 2024 - GOV.UK