A Hull Macmillan Programme team has been shortlisted for a prestigious award recognising their inspirational work supporting people affected by cancer in the area.

Helen Sowden, Programme Manager and Lucie Osborne, Project Manager who work on the Macmillan Cancer Support Improvement Programme for Brain Tumour and Central Nervous System (CNS) Cancers, were nominated by colleagues in the Integration Excellence Award category. The Integration Excellence Award is awarded to individuals who have successfully developed integrated cancer care services through creating exciting new initiatives, products and services.

The Macmillan Improvement Programme for Brain Tumour and CNS Cancers is the first Macmillan redesign project to focus on improving the patient experience for people with rare and complex cancers.

Helen and Lucie, who are hosted by Scarborough and Ryedale Clinical Commissioning Group took the approach to continually co-create and integrate patient experience when shaping service re-design.

By articulating complex patient needs through patient stories and films alongside comprehensive evidence, the team have influenced providers and commissioners to deliver transformational change.

They continue to work with determination to highlight the issues relating to brain tumours and CNS cancers and identify opportunities where there are similarities with other health conditions.

Helen Sowden, Programme Manager, said: “The complexity of this cancer type means there are no off-the-shelf solutions. We’ve had to be really innovative and novel in coming up with suitable solutions for this cohort of patients.”

A surprise celebrity guest will be hosting the awards ceremony at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel on Thursday 17 November, where the winners will be announced for the first time.

The awards, which are now in their fifth year are a perfect opportunity for Macmillan to recognise and thank pioneering teams and individuals who deliver the highest standards of care for people affected by cancer.
Last year more than 300 Macmillan professionals as well as representatives from Macmillan and leading healthcare institutions attended the awards ceremony.

No one should face cancer alone. For support, information or if you have any questions, call Macmillan Cancer Support free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9am–8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk.