An update from our Lived Experience Volunteer Network: September 2026
It has been a busy and productive year for our Lived Experience Volunteer Network, whose members continue to do an incredible job of ensuring that patient experiences help shape and improve the work of Wessex Cancer Alliance.
As our current Steering Group Lead, Eileen, prepares to step down in the new year, we are looking for a volunteer with lived experience of cancer, either as a patient or caregiver, to lead, support and inspire our Steering Group. This rewarding role offers an opportunity to help champion the patient voice and influence cancer services across the region, with full support from both Involving People and Wessex Cancer Alliance. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and you can find out more about the role and what’s involved here.
On 16 September, Steering Group members and Network volunteers came together with colleagues from Wessex Cancer Alliance and Help & Care for our bi-annual in-person Away Day. It was fantastic to see so many volunteers in attendance and to experience the enthusiasm, insight and energy they brought to the day. The event began with an update from Sally, Managing Director of Wessex Cancer Alliance, followed by a rich discussion about the future of local and national cancer services and the vital role that lived experience plays in shaping them. We also spent time reviewing the Steering Group Role Description and Terms of Reference, reflecting on how these have evolved and identifying opportunities for future development.
We were pleased to welcome Action Hampshire, who shared details of their Communities Against Cancer grant programme. Volunteers also heard from a Community Champion about how this funding has supported local initiatives to raise cancer awareness and improve community engagement. The day concluded with a presentation on Living With and Beyond Cancer, a topic that our volunteers are particularly passionate about. Discussions focused on areas including bringing cancer care closer to communities, supporting people with long-term side effects of treatment, and improving the use of treatment summaries to help people manage their ongoing care and recovery.
While the Away Day is always a highlight of our calendar, there has been plenty happening behind the scenes too. Our Reader Panel continues to review cancer-related information each month, ensuring it is clear, accessible and easy for patients, families and carers to understand. Members of our Network and Steering Group have also been actively involved in a wide range of projects and initiatives. These include the ongoing review of the Cancer Matters Wessex website, as well as a survey exploring how Wessex Cancer Alliance can better support people who are caring for someone living with cancer.
We are always keen to hear from people who are interested in the work we do. Volunteering with the Lived Experience Volunteer Network offers a meaningful opportunity to help shape cancer services, improve care for current and future patients, and ensure that the voices of patients and carers are at the heart of decision-making.
We value every contribution and recognise that people can get involved in different ways and at different levels, depending on their circumstances and availability. If you would like to find out more about volunteering with us, please email involvingpeople@helpandcare.org.uk.