A stark new report has laid bare a troubling 'postcode lottery' in the care provided to children with brain tumours across the NHS, leading to profoundly uneven experiences and outcomes depending on a family's location.
Key Findings of the National Review
The comprehensive review, published by the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission on Wednesday 3 December 2025, examined 15 out of the UK's 17 paediatric neuro-oncology services. It identified significant geographical disparities in several critical areas of care.
The report's authors highlighted a 'lack of standardisation' in service quality, resulting in substantial variation for young patients. Key concerns include unacceptable delays in genetic testing and whole genome sequencing, which are vital for unlocking targeted treatments.
Furthermore, the availability of essential support services is patchy. The review found shortages of rehabilitation staff in some centres and major difficulties for children living far from hospital in accessing specialist rehab. Disturbingly, only half of all patients had access to a play specialist, and educational support was inconsistent.
Barriers to Research and a Mother's Heartbreak
Access to potentially life-extending clinical trials is also heavily influenced by geography. The report states that only a small number of centres offer trial participation to patients who live a significant distance away, creating a two-tier system.
'There are notable disparities in access to clinical trial opportunities… a particular challenge is ensuring patients who live far from large academic centres can still participate in new research,' the authors wrote.
Louise Fox, 51 from Bedfordshire, whose son George died from a glioblastoma in 2022 aged just 13, spoke of the injustice. 'During his illness, we encountered moments of exceptional care but we also faced stark disparities in access geographically,' she said. 'It became heartbreakingly clear: whether a child lives in London, Newcastle, or a small town or village can determine the treatment journey they receive. This is not fair.'
Calls for Action and a Government Response
In response to the findings, the Mission has created a 'road map' for improvement. Nicky Huskens, its chief executive, stated: 'The task is now to turn the insights in this study into action, and ensure every child has access to the highest standards of treatment, care and research.'
Dr Karen Noble from Brain Tumour Research emphasised the urgency: 'We are calling on governments across the UK to ensure that 100% of brain tumour patients are offered genome sequencing and that access to clinical trials is expanded. The technology is there – let’s use it.'
Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton responded, saying: 'Every child deserves equal access to treatment for brain cancer, regardless of where they live.' She pointed to government support for the Rare Cancers Bill and the Tessa Jowell Centre of Excellence as part of the effort to bridge these gaps.
