Hosted by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) on behalf of the South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw Cancer Community, the event welcomed more than 100 cancer professionals to the AESSEAL New York Stadium in Rotherham.
Among those attending were Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) – experienced nurses who provide expert advice and ongoing support to patients and families throughout their cancer treatment – alongside Advanced Clinical Practitioners, Cancer Care Coordinators, Patient Navigators and Cancer Support Workers.
The event was designed to help colleagues learn from one another, build stronger relationships and share ideas that will continue to improve cancer care for local patients.
The programme was shaped by feedback from cancer teams and included sessions on the future of cancer services, workforce development, research, quality improvement and the management of immunotherapy side effects. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet cancer charities and support organisations, helping to strengthen partnerships across the region.
Toni Peet, Lead Cancer Nurse at DBTH, said: “Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialists play a vital role in supporting patients and their families throughout their cancer journey. Time and again, patients tell us that their Clinical Nurse Specialist was one of the most important sources of support they received.
“This event was an opportunity to invest in our workforce, celebrate everything our teams do and learn from one another. By sharing ideas and best practice, we can continue to improve the care and experience we provide for people affected by cancer.”
The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with delegates praising the opportunity to network, share experiences and learn from colleagues working in different hospitals and specialist teams.
A special thank you was given to the speakers who shared their expertise throughout the day and to Macmillan Cancer Support, whose sponsorship helped make the event possible.
Following the success of the inaugural event, organisers hope it will become a regular opportunity for cancer teams to come together and continue improving care for patients across the region.