North West Cancer Research has today announced it will take the reins of children’s cancer charity KidsCan, to help ensure that its vital work to save young lives continues.
The move will see North West Cancer Research merge with the Salford-based charity in a bid to safeguard its future, including funding research into childhood cancers and raising awareness of early diagnosis to improve survival rates.
Launched in 2002, KidsCan is dedicated to beating cancer among children, aiming to help every child diagnosed to survive and, importantly, thrive.
To date, the charity has raised a total of £5.69m, making a huge impact on the lives of youngsters and their families, especially those living in Salford and the Greater Manchester area.
Part of KidsCan's work involves giving families hands-on support in the wake of a diagnosis, helping to organise hospital visits, day trips and community support.
However, due to recent financial pressures, the charity faced an uncertain future until North West Cancer Research stepped in.
They will now operate alongside one another, helping to pave the way for a new chapter for both charities.
Jeremy Lea, Chairman of KidsCan, said: “Our mission is to tackle the undeniable shortfall in research into children’s cancers.
“Every year, 1650 children in the UK are diagnosed with cancer, making it the leading cause of childhood death. This figure can be lowered though, through pioneering research into new treatments and preventative measures, plus increased early diagnosis and improved awareness of symptoms.
“Joining North West Cancer Research will ensure the future of our vital work, meaning that future generations will continue to benefit from the charity and we’re incredibly excited to explore what we can achieve together as one. Our aim is to grow the work that we do and to achieve more for children and young people in the region”
As the only independent charity dedicated to tackling cancer across the North West and North Wales, North West Cancer Research puts the region’s cancer needs first.
Since 2000, the charity has funded more than £55 million of world-class research that will ultimately tackle the cause, improve the care and find the cure for cancer.
Paul Moonan, Chair of North West Cancer Research, said: “Our values and goals are firmly rooted in the region, championing local people’s health and their cancer needs, so joining forces with KidsCan feels very natural.
“They have done some fantastic work into improving cancer outcomes in children and I am thrilled that we will now be part of their future – and vice-versa.
“We’re now looking forward to our next chapter working together as one team, with a shared goal…to create a cancer-free future for all.”
