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A new initiative in England plans to cover travel expenses for children and young people diagnosed with cancer, extending support up to the age of 24. This scheme, which is expected to be implemented by 2027, aims to alleviate the financial burden families face when traveling for treatment. The government has allocated £10 million annually to fund these costs, recognizing that journeys to specialist cancer centres can be both lengthy and costly.
Child cancer patients are typically referred to one of 13 specialised treatment centres across England, leading to frequent and sometimes expensive travel demands. Studies indicate that families often spend an average of £250 each month on travel related to hospital visits. Charities have highlighted that some families resort to going into debt to manage these expenses, underscoring the financial strain associated with accessing essential care.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the importance of removing financial worries from families during such challenging times. He stated, “When a child is diagnosed with cancer, their family’s focus should be on helping them recover and getting them well, not on whether they can afford the petrol or bus fare to get to their next appointment.” He added that this support “will make the world of difference to parents.” Emma Wilding, mother to Theo, who was diagnosed with a severe infant blood cancer at just four months old, shared her experience. With Theo undergoing treatment for seven weeks, her husband frequently made a 90-minute round trip to Alder Hey Hospital. Emma described the financial impact as “really expensive,” noting that financial concerns are the last thing families want to face during difficult times. She expressed hope that the new policy would offer comfort, likening it to “having an arm around you.”
The announcement of this travel funding is part of a wider cancer strategy document unveiled by the government. This strategy outlines a series of measures intended to reduce waiting times, enhance early diagnosis, and prevent cancer. Government officials describe it as a rare opportunity to make significant advancements in cancer care, especially since survival rates in England currently lag behind several other wealthy nations. For years, charities have pressed for such financial assistance, revealing the hardships families endure when forced to cut back on essentials like food or risk financial hardship due to travel costs. Additionally, many parents must reduce working hours or leave their jobs completely to care for their sick children.
Previously, financial support for travel expenses in England was largely means-tested and primarily available only to those receiving certain benefits. Similar restrictive provisions apply in Wales and Northern Ireland, while Scotland offers a more generous, if not fully comprehensive, system. Rachel Kirby-Rider from Young Lives vs Cancer described the introduction of this fund as “a huge step forward,” highlighting her charity’s decade-long campaign for such change. In addition to the travel fund, the government has committed to improving hospital play facilities and expanding psychological support services. Jules Worrall from the Teenage Cancer Trust expressed optimism that these steps would bring about “real and lasting change for young people with cancer.
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