Regional strategy sets out ambition for radiotherapy research

The Christie has helped to create a new roadmap for radiotherapy research across the North West.

Published by the North West Radiotherapy Network, of which The Christie is a member, the strategy brings together NHS organisations, universities, industry partners and other stakeholders around a common mission: to support collaboration across the North West and create a person-centred, innovative radiotherapy research environment for all patients.

An accompanying implementation plan translates the strategy's ambitions into clear objectives for the next 5 years. Priorities include improving outcomes, supporting equity of access to research, increasing participation, making better use of data, and accelerating the translation of discoveries into patient care.

The strategy is aligned with national cancer ambitions and the strategic direction of the 3 specialist radiotherapy providers at the heart of the network: The Christie, The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Professor Tim Maughan, Clinical Director of Research at Clatterbridge and Chair in Oncology at the University of Liverpool, said: "I am confident that the North West is exceptionally well positioned to become a leading UK region for radiotherapy research. By working together, sharing expertise and supporting one another, we can create a research environment that not only generates new knowledge but also translates it rapidly into better outcomes and experiences for the patients we serve."

Danny Hutton, Network Manager at the Radiotherapy Network, said: "I am delighted to publish our regional strategy for radiotherapy research. I am grateful to everyone who has contributed to the strategy over the last 12 months. Now the hard work starts as we work together to embed it across the North West."