Download a designed PDF of this pageIn May, we asked staff, patients, partner organisations and the wider public what they thought of our draft strategy for 2026 to 2031.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who shared their views in our feedback survey and engagement events. Overall comments were very positive including:
- “I think it’s really clear and well written – there’s no jargon and it’s easy to understand.” (Staff member)
- “It reads very well and is ambitious.” (Patient)
- “I agree with all you are planning to do.” (Staff member and patient’s relative)
But you were also honest about the things we could improve and your feedback helped shape the final strategy we have now published. We took your ideas on board and made changes to reflect what you told us.
You said: ‘The draft mission statement talks about transforming “the cancer experience”. We don’t really like that phrase.’
We changed: We changed the mission statement to transforming “the lives of people living with and beyond cancer”.
You said: ‘Get the basics right. New treatments, research and innovation are great but it’s just as important to get the day-to-day things right like arranging appointments at times that suit the patient.’
We changed: We added a new section in ‘Be Outstanding’ about our commitment to getting the basics right. We agree this is just as important as new innovations.
You said: ‘You need to include more detail on how you will deliver all this, monitor progress and know if you have achieved your goals.’
We changed: We added a section that explains we will create detailed annual business plans / delivery plans with clear goals and outcomes. Progress will be monitored through our Trust Board and internal meetings with regular updates.
You said: ‘You should make it clearer how this relates to the National Cancer Plan.’
We changed: It now has more references to the National Cancer Plan and 10 Year Health Plan. We also added some case studies showing how this strategy supports key aspects of those national plans – for example, improving outcomes for young people with cancer and improving quality of life for people with cancer.
You said: ‘The strategy doesn’t focus enough on frailty and how to make sure that frailer patients get the right support and care.’
We changed: We added content explaining what we are doing about frailty and how this will develop over the next 5 years.
You said: ‘You should focus on supporting patients before, during and after cancer treatment – prehabilitation, rehabilitation, psychological support, survivorship and late effects.’
We changed: We added sections explaining how we plan to do this over the next 5 years.
You said: ‘Can you add more detail about how you will work with other healthcare providers (including GPs), NHS commissioners and the community and voluntary sector?’
We changed: We added more information about this. It’s important that we work closely with all sectors of health and social care.
You said: ‘The strategy talks about inclusion. It would be great to understand how you will make sure services are inclusive for autistic people and others who may face barriers.’
We changed: We added some examples such as the work we are doing to look at barriers in cancer care for autistic adults and people with learning disabilities.
You said: ‘When you’re looking at digital innovations and the NHS App, it’s important not to forget about people who can’t access or use technology like that.’
We changed: We added content explaining that we will make sure no one is left behind.
You said: ‘It’s important to invest in staff and make sure they are supported. The strategy needs to feel achievable.’
We changed: We added information about how we will invest in and support staff, and make sure people have fulfilling work, manageable workloads and opportunities to develop.
You said: ‘Our research programme has grown so much in recent years. The strategy sets out further ambitions. Please make sure we have the space we need for this.’
We changed: Our annual business plans and delivery plans will make sure we have the right facilities in place for all aspects of the strategy.
You said: ‘Can you add more about plans for Radiotherapy?’
We changed: We added more on our ambitions for radiotherapy over the next 5 years throughout the strategy.
Thank you so much to everyone who shared their thoughts about the draft strategy and helped us make sure the final version reflects the right ambitions and priorities.
Your feedback will help ensure The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre delivers outstanding care, visionary research and digital innovation in a collaborative and inclusive way – and that we are a great place to work.