Hundreds of attendees visited the Hope for Tomorrow unit at Oncology Professional Care (OPC) 2024 to find out how the charity is leading the way in bringing cancer screening, aftercare and treatment to patients in a comfortable mobile setting.
The two-day event held at ExCeL London saw more than 400 oncology professionals visiting the team and viewing the unit. Doctors, nurses and NHS management staff alike showed great interest and support for the work of Hope for Tomorrow and the build of the unit itself. Chief Executive, Tina Seymour and Head of Partnerships and Fleet, Leanda Bickley, were on hand to chat to visitors and answer any questions.
“We had a fantastic two days and met so many people who wanted to find out about how mobile cancer care can make a difference to the whole cancer pathway,” said Tina. “It was a huge benefit to have a unit in-situ so people could see it for themselves, with many commenting how spacious and comfortable it was. Many took photos and videos to take back to show their teams and Trust stakeholders.
“After unveiling our five-year strategy earlier this year, it was also a chance to talk to those working in oncology in the NHS about our aim to make cancer care services more accessible and convenient for everyone. We had copies of the Charity’s strategy available to take away, which many people did.”
Hope for Tomorrow currently provides 12 units, 11 nurse support vehicles and partners with nine NHS trusts across the country. Last year alone the units allowed the NHS to deliver nearly 30,000 cancer treatments in local communities.
“Ideally, we would love every trust in the country to have a unit,” commented Leanda. “So it was especially pleasing that so many people were asking about how they could get one and exactly what they can be used for. Many were surprised to hear that we supply the units to Trusts thanks to fundraising efforts, with no cost to them except a small handling fee.
“As a charity, we rely solely on fundraising to supply and keep our units moving. It was important for us to make sure people knew that cancer treatment is obviously a big part of what the units support with, more cancer patients are also being screened and receive aftercare in their communities.”
Oncology patient requirements differ depending where you are in the country. Specific regional challenges, health inequalities and the needs of cancer patients vary and Hope for Tomorrow is committed to working with NHS Trusts to identify how the units can best help to address these. No one unit is exactly the same, they can be built based on the specific requirements/needs of those involved.
