MP visits Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Ripon to support Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story campaign

Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has visited the Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Ripon to meet with staff and volunteers.

The visit was organised as part of his support for the charity's “Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story” campaign which calls for a long-term cancer strategy to improve cancer outcomes for people in Yorkshire.

During his visit, Julian spoke to staff and volunteers about the campaign, which focuses on making early diagnosis a priority by reducing barriers to accessing GP and screening appointments.

According to Yorkshire Cancer Research, more than a fifth of cancer cases in Yorkshire are diagnosed through emergency routes - the highest rate in England – often leading to late-stage diagnoses when the cancer is often harder to treat.

The campaign also emphasises the need for improved cancer treatment, advocating for better integration of prehabilitation and rehabilitation services for people with cancer. Julian highlighted the importance of these services, noting that proactive measures can significantly enhance patient recovery and quality of life.

During his visit Julian spoke to Mary, Yorkshire Cancer Research’s Retail Area Manager, who outlined the changes to the store in Ripon following its recent refurbishment. The changes include moving the cash desk to the back of the shop to ease customer flow, a department store style layout, new flooring, style tables, colour blocked ladies fashion and improved product placement.

After the visit, Julian said, "It was great to meet the dedicated team at the Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Ripon and learn more about the shop’s refurbishment. I support the Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story campaign and will continue to advocate for these important issues in Parliament, ensuring that Yorkshire’s cancer story is firmly on the agenda.”

You can join Yorkshire Cancer Research’s Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story campaign by visiting the webpage below.