Thank you very much for contacting me about psychological support for young people with cancer.
As a general point, my colleagues and I in the Welsh Conservatives believe it is vital that we do not win the battle against COVID-19 only to lose the war against cancer and other conditions.
Before the pandemic hit, it was of great concern that Wales’ cancer survival rates were amongst the worst in Europe, with much more to be done on improving early diagnosis. Welsh Conservatives want to see consistent improvements in outcomes for all cancer patients in Wales and we have long called upon the Welsh Labour Government for greater investment in research and innovation; a reduction in referral and waiting times targets to increase the likelihood of early diagnosis and treatment, alongside improved access to screening and modern cancer medicines.
Cancer screening resumed in Wales in July 2020, but it is bitterly disappointing that the Welsh Labour Government has still not firmed up plans on how best to tackle lengthening cancer waiting lists. Around 30,000 fewer people than expected were identified with suspected cancers in the 10 months to December 2020, about 18 percent lower than the same period in 2019. This has resulted in approximately 3,500 fewer patients being diagnosed with cancer between March and November 2020, and we continue to push for stronger messaging and an action plan from Welsh Labour.
On psychological support for young people with cancer, Welsh Conservatives welcomed the publication of the Welsh Government’s Cancer Quality Statement this year, which has stated as one of the quality attributes of cancer care is that “person-centred cancer care is culturally embedded and supported by a common approach to assessing and managing people’s needs”. We agree with Teenage Cancer Trust that this should include psychological support.
Furthermore, a pathway has been established for teenage and young adult cancer, which specifically states it is “designed to ensure all young people have access to specialist age specific psychological, social, financial, educational and emotional support, as well as clinical expertise on teenage and young adult cancer and access to peer support”. As a result, my colleague, Russell George MS, the Shadow Minister for Health will outline the points you raise directly with the Minister for Health, Eluned Morgan MS.
I hope this reassures you and thank you again for taking the time to write to me.