The Cancer Awareness, Screening, and Early Diagnosis Initiative was a targeted, time-limited programme delivered across Lancashire and South Cumbria, with particular focus on East Lancashire and Blackpool. Funded through the VCFSE-led Small Grants Scheme for Cancer Education and Engagement, the initiative supported small community projects aimed at increasing awareness, encouraging screening, and promoting early diagnosis of lung, bowel, and pancreatic cancers. These cancers are often diagnosed too late for effective treatment, and this initiative aimed to change that by equipping communities with knowledge and confidence to take early action.

Over six months, voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise organisations received grants of up to £5,000 to undertake targeted work in their local areas. Projects involved a variety of approaches, from health education workshops and outreach events to culturally tailored campaigns and collaborations with local healthcare providers. The aim was to increase understanding of cancer risk factors, such as smoking, diet, and physical inactivity, while also raising awareness of the importance of screening and recognising early symptoms.

Crucially, the initiative focused heavily on engaging with underserved and marginalised communities. It aimed to reduce health inequalities and support NHS Core20PLUS5 goals by tackling barriers to accessing cancer information and services. Local organisations leveraged their trusted relationships to encourage discussions about cancer, dismantle stigma, and guide people towards the support and screening available to them.

The funded project made a tangible difference on the ground by engaging residents through face-to-face activities, increasing awareness where knowledge was limited, and strengthening local partnerships that will help sustain cancer prevention efforts beyond the grant’s duration. At the end of the funding period, each organisation provided a summary of their achievements, the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and its recommendations for future work, creating a shared body of insight to inform and improve local cancer awareness initiatives moving forward.

This initiative highlights the impact of local action and community-led approaches in addressing health inequalities and enhancing outcomes for individuals at risk of cancer. By investing in grassroots organisations and supporting collaboration across sectors, it has helped establish the groundwork for lasting change, ultimately saving lives through earlier detection.