A Snapshot of our Year - 2025/2026

At CancerCare, we understand that facing cancer or bereavement is more than just a physical issue. The impact reaches beyond the patient, often affecting those around them. Therefore, at CancerCare we aim to:

• Provide a comprehensive support service for individuals facing cancer, life-shortening illness or bereavement. We also aim to support their carers, families and friends.

• Ensure the period of support extends from diagnosis, through treatment to the survivorship or terminal phase, working with and supporting colleagues within the NHS.

• Support all clients to attain and maintain the maximum level of mental, social and physical well-being compatible with their illness.

Importantly, every referral represents an individual, undoubtedly concerned, probably frightened and perhaps with family and friends worried about what their relative or friend may be facing - each has their own specific needs. During our financial year 2025/26, CancerCare saw unprecedented demand, with a total of 2,504 referrals into our service. This represents a 6% increase over the previous year. This demonstrates the continuing and growing need for CancerCare’s services and the important role we play alongside the clinical care provided by the wider health service.

Please see below some of our highlights from 2025/2026:

Dave Day 2025

CancerCare was proud to be one of the two official charity partners for the 2025 Dave Day weekend, held in memory of the late TV chef and Hairy Bikers star, Dave Myers.

The event brought together around 30,000 bikers and thousands of supporters from across the UK to celebrate Dave’s life and legacy.

As an official charity partner, Dave Day provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with local people and visitors alike, share information about the support we provide for those affected by cancer and bereavement, and raise vital funds to help sustain our services.

Early Diagnosis Campaign

The Early Diagnosis Campaign reached an important milestone in September, with the completion of the 12-month project and submission of its final report to the Cancer Alliance. The resulting awareness campaign was developed to encourage people to recognise potential signs of cancer and feel more comfortable talking about diagnosis and seeking help.

Engagement Strategy Update

Our Engagement Strategy for 2025 - 2028 focuses on reaching isolated groups, involving communities in shaping our services, and raising awareness of the early signs and symptoms of cancer. It is underpinned by the principles of trust, collaboration and inclusion, providing a clear framework for our engagement activity over the next three years.

Re-Fresh Success

Re-Fresh continued to provide a safe, supportive and engaging environment for young people. Building on the success of previous programmes, young people took part in a range of enriching activities. We received a nomination for a national award for Re-Fresh’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, and appeared on BBC Television.

Feedback from participants continued to demonstrate the value of the group. Weekly peer support sessions remained well attended, providing ongoing opportunities for social connection, emotional support and personal development.

Fundraising Update

Here are a handful of awesome people who did amazing things for us....