SDLP leader and Foyle MP Colum Eastwood
Said the Foyle MP: “This September I’m supporting Young Lives Vs. Cancer as they launch a call for the Northern Ireland Executive to establish a government-funded Young Patient Travel Fund.
“Over 4,000 children and young people under 25 are diagnosed with cancer annually in Northern Ireland and Britain, necessitating long journeys to specialised treatment centres.
“Families in Northern Ireland average 250 miles of travel per month, with 71% struggling financially.
“Only 8% receive support, and 1 in 10 must delay or forgo treatment due to increasing costs.
“The Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy recommends collaboration between Northern Ireland, Great Britain, and the Republic of Ireland.
“Young Lives vs. Cancer is calling for the creation of a government-funded Young Patient Travel Fund.
“Collaborating with the NI Children’s Health Coalition, they aim to ensure that children, young people, and their families are not left financially disadvantaged because of the necessity to travel for cancer treatment.
“The DUP must return to Stormont urgently to support these children and young people with cancer and their families.
“Finances must not be a barrier to life-saving treatment.”
