10 Years of Patient Involvement at Cancer Research UK

panel members talking

 

 

 10 Years of Patient Involvement at Cancer Research UK

For the past decade, people affected by cancer have helped shape our work in powerful ways. From strategy to research, your voices have guided us every step of the way. Here's a look back at what we've achieved together.

 

 

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

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