The Oswestry Cancer Buddies Group is joining the growing call for the UK Government to create a dedicated National Cancer Plan, highlighting the urgent need for tailored financial and practical support for those affected by cancer.
This follows a powerful campaign led by Bells Lewers, a cancer patient from Chester, who has drawn national attention to the inadequacies of current government policies through her lived experience. Bells has received direct support from her local MP and the Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and her efforts have successfully raised the issue in Parliament.
Her message is clear: people living with cancer should not face unnecessary financial hardship or stress as they undergo treatment and adjust to life after diagnosis. She is now encouraging others—those newly diagnosed, in treatment, or in remission—to write to their local MPs using a letter template she has developed. The letter outlines a proposal for a dedicated, fast-track benefit for cancer patients, easing the burden of financial stress that can exacerbate an already overwhelming experience.
Oswestry Cancer Buddies supports this campaign and encourages local residents and the wider community to take part by sharing the message and, if willing, writing to their MP, Helen Morgan, who can be reached at helen.morgan.mp@parliament.uk.
The Oswestry Cancer Buddies Group meets twice a month and offers a warm, welcoming space for anyone affected by cancer. The drop-in sessions take place on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, from 2:30 to 3:30pm in the Meeting Room at Oswestry Library, Arthur Street. The group is led by Linda Lade, who welcomes everyone with a friendly smile, a hot drink, and space to chat and share.
For more information about Oswestry Cancer Buddies, visit their Facebook page @oswestrycancerbuddies, call Linda on 07711 981984, or email oswestrycancerbuddies@gmail.com.
Oswestry Cancer Buddies Group leader, Linda Lade.
