Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation has joined the Northern Ireland Cancer Charities Coalition (NICCC), a new initiative designed to improve cancer services and outcomes across Northern Ireland. This national partnership signals a major step toward delivering world-class cancer care for everyone affected by the disease.
34 charities working as one
The NICCC brings together 34 cancer charities with one united voice. The coalition mirrors similar alliances in the rest of the UK and follows the return of Stormont. Together, the charities will support people living with cancer and work to strengthen cancer care across the region.
Driving urgent change in lung cancer services
We are committed to pushing for improvements in lung cancer services in Northern Ireland. The NI Cancer Strategy continues to stall due to funding issues. The coalition will keep calling for Stormont to prioritise and deliver the strategy’s recommendations without delay.
Key goals of the NICCC
The coalition has set out to:
- Improve services, outcomes and support for cancer patients
- Promote research into cancer care and prevention
- Influence policies and priorities within the Northern Ireland Assembly
- Press for full delivery of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy
Stormont hosts a key milestone
A landmark gathering at Stormont set the tone for the coalition’s work. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt recognised the NICCC’s potential to overcome the region’s cancer care challenges and help deliver better results for patients. The coalition will now act as a single point of engagement with decision-makers and ensure patient voices stay front and centre.
Speaking with strength during uncertain times
Richard Spratt, Chief Executive of Cancer Focus Northern Ireland and Interim Chair of the NICCC, highlighted the need for unity. He stressed the importance of a strong, collective voice during political instability. The coalition plans to speed up collaboration between cancer charities, push for urgent funding for the Cancer Strategy and address worsening waiting times.
A new chapter for cancer advocacy
The NICCC launch marks a powerful shift in how Northern Ireland supports cancer patients. Inspired by successful coalitions in England, Scotland, and Wales, the group will push for long-term improvements in cancer services and survival rates.
We are proud to stand alongside coalition partners and will work together to give every person affected by cancer the care, support and outcomes they deserve.