Weston Park Cancer Charity grant helps young patients to access clinical trials

A Weston Park Cancer Charity grant of almost £90k has enabled more young people to access clinical trials, by funding the work of a Teenage and Young Adult (TYA) research nurse.

The grant, which covered a period of two and a half years, also funded a range of services for young patients aged 13-25 - from hardship grants to one-to-one emotional support.

In her role, TYA research nurse Helen Trower has worked hard to promote the clinical trials available for young patients at Weston Park Cancer Centre.

As a result, 34 TYA patients consented to being part of a clinical trial at the hospital during the lifetime of the project – which is more than a five-fold increase in research participation.

As well as furthering our understanding of cancer, clinical trials can support patients on an individual level as they allow participants to access cutting-edge treatments.

Dr Robin Young, Consultant Medical Oncologist and TYA Clinical Lead, said:

“Unfortunately, we know that teenagers and young adults with cancer often experience worse outcomes compared to paediatric and older patients.

“Research is the key to understanding and addressing this disparity, but traditionally this age group has had lower recruitment rates to clinical trials.

“Helen has been an incredible advocate for TYA research, and that is reflected in the increased participation we’re seeing from our patients.

“By widening access to research, the funding provided by Weston Park Cancer Charity is helping to expand our understanding of TYA cancers.

“In time, we hope this will lead to new treatments and better outcomes for our young patients.”

22-year-old Ella, who took part in research at the hospital, said:

“Treatment was an incredibly scary time. Knowing there was research taking place that would improve patient care and outcomes was so important to me.

“It was great to then have the chance to take part in research studies myself and help make a difference.

“It was easy to get involved, and it was rewarding to know it could help others going through treatment in the future.”

While in post, Helen has established a strong network of clinicians, researchers, and fellow TYA nurses working at hospitals across the country.

These invaluable connections have helped Helen to identify TYA trials taking place nationally, that could be adopted in Sheffield.

This collaborative approach also makes it easier for healthcare professionals to share expertise and work together to promote TYA research.

Speaking about her role, Helen said:

“Teenagers and young adults are a unique and varied group, and I have always felt very lucky and privileged to work with them.

“I am delighted to be an advocate for them and to see an increase in the opportunities for their involvement in research.”

With Helen’s role now well established, she will continue to work as a TYA research champion within the hospital’s Cancer Clinical Trials Centre.

Grace Rawson, Head of Governance and Operations at Weston Park Cancer Charity, said:

“What a privilege it is, to be able to provide much-needed funding for our incredible TYA team.

“We’re delighted to see that the grant has helped to increase participation in the groundbreaking research taking place at the hospital’s Cancer Clinical Trials Centre.

“Thank you to all of our fantastic supporters who donate so generously to make grants like this possible.”

You can support the work of the TYA team, by donating directly to the Rochelle Baxter Fund at: rochelle-baxter-fund.raiselysite.com/