Express reporter Robert Fisk has achieved a major victory for cancer sufferers like himself. Despite being diagnosed with incurable bowel cancer, he has continued his work as a journalist, and this week his Cancer Care campaign has yielded results. Under new Government plans, hundreds of thousands of cancer patients will receive vital mental health support months earlier than expected.
Ending the Postcode Lottery
The campaign's success will end a postcode lottery that has left patients struggling with anxiety and depression during and after cancer treatment without the help they need. All newly diagnosed NHS cancer patients in England will have a complete support plan by the end of the year, covering not just their treatment but also wider physical, mental health, and social needs such as employment and financial support, much of which they will access through local services.
Rollout of Personal Cancer Plans
Personal cancer plans are expected to be rolled out to all cancer patients in England next year. Plans will be available on the NHS App by 2028, allowing them to be regularly reviewed and updated as patients' needs change. Patients will also receive an end-of-treatment summary to address the cliff edge many face when chemotherapy or surgery finishes, giving clear guidance on warning signs, who to call with concerns, and where to find ongoing support like physiotherapy, counselling, or local cancer groups.
Robert said: "I'm obviously absolutely delighted that after almost two years of running the Daily Express's Cancer Care campaign that cancer patients will soon be getting the support they need, from the day of diagnosis onwards."
