Empowering Patients for Life Beyond Treatment

Cancer survival rates in the UK have been steadily improving, yet the journey does not end with treatment completion. Living With and Beyond Cancer (LWBC) is a national priority, focusing on supporting cancer patients as they navigate life post-treatment, manage ongoing health needs, and maintain quality of life.

Did you know?

• 1 in 3 people living with and beyond cancer experience moderate to severe unmet needs at the end of treatment.
• The numbers of people being diagnosed within Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin continues to rise and, as advancements within clinical treatments continue to develop, we have seen that a lot of people are living for longer.
• We estimate that there are over 55,000 people living with and beyond cancer within Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and this is only set to rise.

National Vision and Commitment

The NHS Long Term Plan ambitions for cancer includes a strong vision for enhancing the lives of cancer patients through proactive, personalised, and community-based support. By 2028, the NHS plan prioritises holistic, personalised care pathways that recognise the complex physical, emotional, and social challenges cancer patients face.

NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin's Commitment

NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin aims to establish sustainable, locally driven programmes that empower cancer patients to manage their health, quality of life, and wellbeing. We are committed to working closely with NHS Trusts, primary care, voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations to offer personalised care to people with cancer:

• Personalised Care and Support Planning (based on holistic needs assessments) ensures people’s physical, practical, emotional, and social needs are identified and addressed at the earliest opportunity.
• Risk-Stratified Pathways, include personalised follow-up care, symptom management resources, and mental health support.
• End of Treatment Summaries provide both the person and their GP with valuable information, including a detailed summary of treatment completed, potential side effects, signs and symptoms of recurrence and contact details to address any concerns.
• Primary Care Cancer Care Review is a discussion between the person and their GP / primary care nurse about their cancer journey. This helps the person to discuss any concerns, and, if appropriate, to be referred to services or signposted to information and support that is available in their community and from charities.
• Rehabilitation and physical activity play a role in long-term health and recovery. Cancer can often have lasting impacts on physical wellbeing, making rehabilitation and activity essential for improving quality of life.
• Health and Wellbeing Information and Support includes the provision of accessible information about emotional support, coping with side effects, financial advice, peer support, getting back to work and making healthy lifestyle choices. This support will be available before, during and after cancer treatment.
• Reducing Health Inequalities in Cancer Care tailors care based on local needs, ensuring equitable access to services, particularly for underserved communities. Increasing accessibility and ensuring all cancer patients are equipped with the information and support they need to make informed decisions.

How you can support Living With and Beyond Cancer (LWBC) Awareness

The success of LWBC initiatives depends on widespread understanding and community support. You can help by:

• Encouraging cancer patients and their families to access LWBC services.
• Supporting and sharing community-led cancer patient events, such as support groups and educational workshops.
• Volunteering or participating in wellness programmes that promote health, resilience, and social connection for those affected by cancer.

Together for a Healthier Future for Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin 

We invite communities, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to support and engage in LWBC programmes. By building awareness and fostering support for LWBC, we can help cancer patients in our communities thrive beyond their diagnosis. Let’s work together to make this vision a reality ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can access the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives after cancer.