THE closure of one of the UK’s biggest cancer research charities threatens the country’s position as a world leader in the field, experts warn.
The National Cancer Research Institute announced it was closing down because of a lack of funds.
One of the UK’s biggest cancer research charities has been forced to close, threatening the country’s position as a world leader in the field, experts warn
The charity brought together funders, researchers and patients to improve cancer research across Britain.
Professor Lawrence Young, of the University of Warwick, said: “This is shocking news that will significantly impact cancer research and the development of new treatments in the UK.
“This is yet another blow to the research community and to the position of the UK as a world leader in cancer research.”
It comes after a report found the NHS performs “poorly” compared to other countries’ health systems in terms of preventing treatable deaths, including many forms of cancer.
The NCRI was set up 22 years ago after the health service’s first cancer plan proposed health departments, industry and charities that fund research were formally connected.
It looked at where cancer research was most needed and where it would be most likely to contribute to progress.
In an open letter, NCRI chair Fiona Driscoll said the charity is now “winding down” due to concerns around its funding.
She said: “NCRI consulted widely with stakeholders last year to produce a strategy fit for the future.
“This has raised significant questions around the sustainability of NCRI’s operating and funding model.
“We have not been able to resolve it in such a way which would deliver long term viability for the organisation.
“Reluctantly therefore, the Board decided that the risk of operational failure was too great to continue.”
Cancer charities that rely on the NCRI for funding of clinical trials said it had helped contribute to the development of potentially life-saving drugs.
Sarah McDonald, of Blood Cancer UK, said: “It’s sad this long standing collaboration between clinicians, those with lived experience and charities will be winding down.
“Clinical trials are the only way those living with blood cancer can access new treatment.
“While this announcement doesn’t mean that an ongoing trial and those accessing existing drugs will be affected, work will be needed to make sure this gap is plugged.”
