REDDITCH MP Chris Bloore has called for stronger mental health and reintegration support for young cancer patients after securing a commitment from a government minister to meet with him and young people affected.
Speaking in a House of Commons debate on young cancer patients’ experiences and outcomes, Mr Bloore highlighted the often-overlooked challenges faced by young people after completing treatment, particularly the social isolation and mental health struggles that can follow an ‘all-clear’.
Drawing on cases raised in his constituency surgeries, he warned that, while the clinical phase of treatment was vital, too many young people were left without the support they needed to rebuild their lives and return to education, work and everyday routines.
He said: “One issue brought to my attention in my surgeries is that, after the often intensive clinical process of a young person going through a cancer diagnosis, getting treatment and getting through the other side, the period after the all-clear is an intense time of social isolation.
“Significant mental health support is required to help them reintegrate into school, college or work.
“Recovery does not end when treatment ends and we need a system that recognises that.”
During the debate, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care agreed to meet with Mr Bloore and young people who have experienced cancer treatment, to discuss how post-treatment support could be improved.
The MP welcomed the commitment and said it was vital lived experience shaped future policy.
He added he was pleased the Minister had agreed to meet and listen to young people who had experienced it first-hand.
“Getting the all-clear should be a moment of relief but for too many, it marks the start of a different kind of struggle.
“This is about making sure no young person feels left behind after cancer treatment and that they have the support they need to move forward with their lives.”
Mr Bloore now plans to arrange the meeting and encouraged young people in Redditch who had been through cancer treatment to share their experiences with his office.
Email [email protected] to submit experiences to Mr Bloore.
