Many people still find it difficult to talk about. Questions about symptoms, uncertainty about screening, or fear of what a diagnosis might mean can prevent people from seeking help early.
In Calderdale, more than 1,100 people are diagnosed with cancer each year.
Screening programmes play a vital role in detecting cancer early, when treatment is often more effective. However, screening uptake locally remains below the national average, meaning that some may be missing opportunities that could save their lives.
To help address this challenge, a partnership between Halifax Opportunities Trust and Macmillan Cancer Support launched the Calderdale Cancer Aware programme in October 2024. It became one of the first of 11 projects established across the UK, with Calderdale’s approach being recognised as highly successful, and their methods now being shared nationally.
While the initiative delivers community events, drop-in sessions and awareness workshops, one of its most impactful elements has been the development of Cancer Champions.
Cancer Champions are individuals who receive training and support to help raise awareness about cancer prevention, symptoms and screening within their own workplaces, community groups and networks.
By equipping people with accurate information and practical resources, the programme allows everyone to become advocates for better health within their everyday environments.
The role of a Cancer Champion is not to provide medical advice, but to start conversations.
Milad Ahmed, Head of Communities & Participation at Macmillan, said:
“Working with local community partners such as Calderdale Cancer Aware, Macmillan has developed eleven Cancer Champions projects across the UK. The central aim is to recruit and work with volunteers from the community to support local people and change perceptions, encourage conversations about cancer, reduce barriers to inclusion and improve accessibility...
In Calderdale, more than 1,100 people are diagnosed with cancer each year, yet screening uptake is below the national average. The Cancer Champions in Calderdale have delivered more than 500 support sessions/events, that have helped communities in Calderdale to find and use all sources of cancer information and support locally – in their chosen format or preferred language. They are also encouraging access to national support services such as the Macmillan support line.”
Something as simple as mentioning screening during a coffee break, sharing information about symptoms, or encouraging someone to attend their appointment can make a real difference.
When these conversations happen in familiar environments such as workplaces or community groups, people often feel more comfortable asking questions and engaging with the information.
Speaking about the programme, Rachel Porter, Calderdale Cancer Aware Manager, said:
“By continuing to grow our network of Cancer Champions across Calderdale, we hope to build a community where people feel confident talking about cancer and are proactive about their health. The more awareness we can build together, the greater the opportunity for early detection.”
As the network of Cancer Champions continues to expand, the programme aims to ensure that conversations about cancer become a normal part of everyday life across Calderdale, helping more people feel informed, supported and confident to take action for their health.
Alongside the Cancer Champions initiative, the Calderdale Cancer Aware team also delivers weekly drop-in sessions, healthy living programmes, school and college engagement, screening support and community events.
Through this work, the programme has already begun to see encouraging results. Since launching, 48 individuals who had previously not attended their screening appointments have chosen to do so after engaging with the team. For three people, screening identified issues that required further treatment, highlighting the life-saving potential of early detection.
Could you become a Cancer Champion?
Whether you represent your workplace or department, you can make a real difference.
You’ll get:
- Free 90-minute training
- Practical support for your staff
- Certificate and recognition
You’ll gain…
- Practical skills
- Membership of the cancer champion network
- Confidence to support colleagues affected by cancer
- Direct links to local services and referral routes
For more details or to nominate a staff member, contact Sarah on 07526 582996 or email calderdalecanceraware@regen.org.uk
VCSE Sector, stay tuned as VAC and Calderdale Cancer Aware come together for a focused session to strengthen our network of Cancer Champions.
