As Movember brought men’s health into the spotlight this November, the Cancer Champions Project is stepped forward with a powerful message: early detection saves lives. Every 90 seconds, someone in the UK is diagnosed with cancer. For some, spotting the signs early and attending routine screenings can save lives.
The Cancer Champions programme is a new initiative designed to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of common cancers and encourage people to attend vital screening appointments. At its heart is a network of trained volunteers, known as Cancer Champions, who will be supporting their workplace or the wider community.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with around 55,300 cases diagnosed every year in the UK. Yet many men delay getting checked, often because they don’t recognise the symptoms or feel uncomfortable talking about them. Movember was a timely reminder that these conversations matter – and the Cancer Champions Project is here to make them happen.
Over the next 12 months, the project aims to recruit and train 60 Cancer Champions, building a sustainable network that uses innovative digital tools and community engagement to spread awareness. Delivered in partnership by health and wellbeing charity, Pioneering Care Partnership, and County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, the programme will focus on areas where cancer-related health inequalities are most common in County Durham.
This collaborative approach ensures that cancer awareness isn’t just a campaign – it’s a movement. By embedding Cancer Champions in workplaces and communities, the project is creating everyday opportunities for people to learn, ask questions, and act. Because, when it comes to cancer, knowledge really can save lives.
If you’re friendly, caring, and passionate, about making a difference, the Cancer Champion Project would love to hear from you. Becoming a Cancer Champion means helping others spot the signs early, attend screenings, and ultimately, live longer and healthier lives. Get in touch by emailing: cancerchampions@pcp.uk.net or phoning 01325 321 234.