CLIC Sargent responds to NHS England Cancer Patient Experience Survey

NHS England has today (4 September) released the findings of its annual Cancer Patient Experience Survey (CPES).  Each year about 70,000 patients report to the CPES on a range of experiences related to their care. For example, how long they have had to wait before first seeing a hospital doctor, or how clearly they felt the results of tests were explained to them.

The number of young people responding to the survey has remained low, with just 242 16-24 year olds taking part.  

Responding to the new findings, Helen Gravestock, Head of Research, Policy & Campaigns, at children and young people’s cancer support charity CLIC Sargent, said: “The Cancer Patient Experience Survey is designed to assess how people are experiencing their cancer care and identify areas for improvement.  

“Yet again, this year has seen a worryingly low number of responses from 16-24 year olds, meaning it simply isn’t possible to monitor young patients’ experiences of cancer care or assess how age can affect these outcomes.  

“In previous years the response rate for 16-24s has fallen continuously from a high of 442 in 2010 to last year’s low of 216. This year’s figure of just 242 demonstrates that serious work is required to reverse this trend and ensure adequate data is collected on young people’s experiences of cancer care. 

“We are currently working with NHS England on the development of a survey for patients under the age of 16 who currently do not have their experiences monitored. As experts in involving children and young people in their care, we look forward to continuing to ensure that children and young people with cancer can have their voices heard.” 

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Notes to editors 

For more information and press queries please contact jessica.rees@younglivesvscancer.org.uk.

About cancer in children and young people 

Today, 12 more children and young people in the UK will hear the devastating news that they have cancer. Treatment normally starts immediately, is often given many miles from home and can last for up to three years. Although survival rates are over 80%, cancer remains the single largest cause of death from disease in children and young people in the UK. 

About CLIC Sargent 

When cancer strikes young lives CLIC Sargent helps families limit the damage cancer causes beyond their health. CLIC Sargent is the UK’s leading charity for young cancer patients and their families. We provide specialist support, to help and guide each young cancer patient and their family. We will fight tirelessly for them, individually, locally and nationally. For more information, visit www.clicsargent.org.uk 

Note to sub editors 

Please note that the name ‘CLIC Sargent’ should not be abbreviated to CLIC, and that the word ‘CLIC’ should always appear in capitals, as above.