Lagan Valley MP Sorcha Eastwood has called for the introduction of a child cancer travel fund in Northern Ireland, following a significant announcement from the UK Government. On October 10, 2023, Health Secretary Wes Streeting revealed that £10 million will be allocated annually through the National Cancer Plan to support children and young people with cancer across England. This fund aims to alleviate travel costs for families seeking necessary medical care.
In response to this announcement, Eastwood confirmed she has reached out to Northern Ireland’s Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, urging him to adopt a similar initiative. “From day one in Parliament, I’ve been fighting for children, young people, and families going through cancer treatment,” she stated. “I’m delighted that the UK Government has announced a child cancer travel fund. However, this only applies to England, and I’m determined to ensure Northern Ireland receives equivalent support.”
Eastwood emphasized that the need for such a fund is urgent, noting that families in Northern Ireland should not be disadvantaged. She expressed her commitment to continue advocating for resources that directly benefit children undergoing cancer treatment in her region.
The call for a travel fund has garnered support from the Powered by Poppy campaign, established by parents Sharon and Mark Ogle in memory of their daughter, Poppy Ogle, who tragically passed away in 2022 at the age of 10 after battling cancer. In a statement on their Facebook page, they welcomed the UK Government’s initiative, stating, “This will lift a huge financial burden for families in England. Here in Northern Ireland, it is a postcode lottery for travel costs, with our only Children’s Cancer unit located in Belfast at the RBHSC.”
The Ogles highlighted the financial strain faced by families traveling from various regions, including Fermanagh and Derry/Londonderry, to access care. They questioned the fairness of the situation, stating, “We all pay the same taxes to the same Government. Surely all children in the UK should be treated as equal?”
Despite the growing consensus on the need for a travel fund, the Northern Ireland Department of Health has indicated that current budget constraints hinder the establishment of a similar scheme. A departmental spokesperson acknowledged the challenges faced by cancer patients, stating, “Patients undergoing treatment for long-term conditions such as cancer may incur additional travel costs that can add financial pressure at an already difficult time.”
The spokesperson further noted that the existing Help with Health Costs (HwHC) scheme provides some assistance for travel expenses related to medical treatment, but primarily for individuals on low incomes. Additionally, current policies include guidance for free or concessionary parking for patients receiving certain types of care, including cancer treatment.
“Given the significant deficit in the Department’s budget, it is not possible to consider any further financial assistance for young cancer patients and their families at this time,” the spokesperson confirmed. Families affected by cancer who are struggling with travel costs are encouraged to discuss their situations with healthcare providers.
As the debate over the necessity of a child cancer travel fund in Northern Ireland continues, Eastwood remains committed to advocating for equitable support for all children facing cancer treatment. The urgency of this issue reflects broader concerns about access to healthcare resources across the UK, underscoring the importance of addressing disparities that affect vulnerable populations.
