10 Years of Patient Involvement at Cancer Research UK

For the past decade, people affected by cancer have helped shape Cancer Research UK in powerful and lasting ways. From influencing our strategy to guiding research, your voices have been at the heart of everything we do.

This year, we’re marking a major milestone: 10 years of patient involvement. Together, we’ve achieved incredible things, creating change that matters for patients, families, and the future of cancer research.

In this special feature, we look back at the key moments that brought us here and share inspiring stories from members who’ve been part of the journey from the very beginning.

Walk through the last decade with us. Celebrate the milestones, and discover how you can be part of shaping the next 10 years.

Meet Sue and Patrick

What began with personal loss has grown into a shared mission to make a difference. Over the past decade, they’ve worked side by side to ensure people affected by cancer have a voice in shaping research.

Read their story

Meet Margaret

For ten years, Margaret’s dedication has helped shape how we work with people affected by cancer. Her story reflects the true value of patient involvement and the lasting impact it can have.

Read her story

Mike with PPV Chair NCP Director CP PPIE manager in 2019

Meet Mike

After his prostate cancer diagnosis, Mike joined the Involvement Network and became a national voice for patients. His decade of commitment shows how lived experience can drive meaningful change.

Read his story

2015 – Building the Foundation

We launched the Involvement Network after hosting events across the UK.
Seven Involvement Coaches joined us, helping shape our approach and train staff.
Together, we began creating a culture where patient voices are central.

2016 – Insight Panels Begin

Our first Cancer Insight Panels were formed.
They met regularly and were consulted 75 times in the first year.
This success led to the four panels we have today, supporting teams across the charity.

2018 – Focus on Children & Young People

We launched the Children & Young People Insights Panel.
Their input has helped shape our research and strategy for young cancer patients.

2019–2020 – Going Digital

We piloted our first Online Insight Panel to gather feedback quickly.
When the pandemic hit, we were ready—continuing involvement safely from home.

2022 – Shaping Our Future Strategy

People with lived experience of cancer helped shape our 10-year strategy; Making discoveries. Driving progress. Bringing hope.
We committed to putting patients at the heart of everything we do.

2023 – Global Voices in Research

We launched the Cancer Grand Challenges Advocacy Panel.
People affected by cancer from around the world now help guide 16 international research teams.
Our first 'in-person' social event for all current Cancer Insight Panel members, at our head office in Stratford.

2024 - Strengthening connections

We held our second in-person social event at Barts Cancer Institute (pictured above).
It was a chance to deepen relationships, celebrate our community, and share experiences face to face.

2025 - A name that reflects everyone

We refreshed our name to Involvement Network to better reflect and include all people affected by cancer.
This change marks our continued commitment to inclusivity and amplifying diverse voices in everything we do.

What Our Community Says

"We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but look at us now! Involvement is part of everything we do."
Margaret Grayson, Chair of Cancer Grand Challenges Advocacy Panel

"Setting up the Involvement Network is one of my proudest career moments."
Sarah McCandless, Former Team Member

"Volunteering makes me feel part of something special. CRUK truly puts patients first."
Patrick McGuire, Former Panel Member

"Being part of the Network feels like being in a community. We’re all in this together."
Gita Patel, Former CYP Member

"I love helping researchers understand how patient involvement adds real value."
Sue Duncombe, Former Panel Member

"The feedback we receive is amazing as you continually update us both verbally and in writing both in meetings and in newsletters. This motivates me to want to contribute and help provide better outcomes for patients, family and friends affected by cancer."
Jacqueline Jackson, Current Panel Member

"I have never been part of anything like CRUK before. The feedback and showing how we have contributed to placing and advice of amazing. It makes me feel like I am valued, listened to and our opinion important to you. This was much more than I could have ever hoped for or expected."
Danielle Wylie, Current Panel Member

"I have been involved in the shortlisting, interviews and selection of panel members and patient involvement staff. I think involving people who are living with cancer in the recruitment process of all areas in CRUK benefits all involved. Prior to my cancer diagnosis, as the headteacher of a large inner London primary school, being part of the process and decision was incredible fulfilling, rewarding and gave me a buzz that I have missed for a long 5 years!"
Branwen Hywel, Current Panel Member

Thank You

We’re incredibly grateful for your time, your stories, and your commitment. You’ve helped shape a decade of progress - and we’re just getting started.