Skip to main content

MP visits Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Ripon to support Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story campaign

Press Contact

Maddie Grounds

07903-461185
maddie.grounds@ycr.org.uk

Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has visited the Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Ripon to meet with staff and volunteers.

The visit was organised as part of his support for the charity's “Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story” campaign which calls for a long-term cancer strategy to improve cancer outcomes for people in Yorkshire.

During his visit, Julian spoke to staff and volunteers about the campaign, which focuses on making early diagnosis a priority by reducing barriers to accessing GP and screening appointments.

Four people stood outside the front of a Yorkshire Cancer Research shop smiling at the camera. On the left are two members of staff, and on the right is Sir Julian Smith and the charity's retail area manager. In the background you can see the charity's blue logo.

According to Yorkshire Cancer Research, more than a fifth of cancer cases in Yorkshire are diagnosed through emergency routes - the highest rate in England – often leading to late-stage diagnoses when the cancer is often harder to treat.

The campaign also emphasises the need for improved cancer treatment, advocating for better integration of prehabilitation and rehabilitation services for people with cancer. Julian highlighted the importance of these services, noting that proactive measures can significantly enhance patient recovery and quality of life.

During his visit Julian spoke to Mary, Yorkshire Cancer Research’s Retail Area Manager, who outlined the changes to the store in Ripon following its recent refurbishment. The changes include moving the cash desk to the back of the shop to ease customer flow, a department store style layout, new flooring, style tables, colour blocked ladies fashion and improved product placement.

After the visit, Julian said, "It was great to meet the dedicated team at the Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Ripon and learn more about the shop’s refurbishment. I support the Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story campaign and will continue to advocate for these important issues in Parliament, ensuring that Yorkshire’s cancer story is firmly on the agenda.”

It was a pleasure to welcome Sir Julian Smith to the Ripon shop today. As well as demonstrating the impact of the charity's growing network of shops, Sir Julian heard about the Active Together programme and how it benefits his constituents. The charity also outlined some of the challenges in obtaining up-to-date and detailed local health data, which is vital in helping to build an accurate picture of cancer landscape across Yorkshire. Yorkshire Cancer Research is grateful to Sir Julian for taking such an interest in its work and for his ongoing support.”

Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Yorkshire Cancer Research

You can join Yorkshire Cancer Research’s Change Yorkshire’s Cancer Story campaign by visiting the webpage below.

Find out more