Thanks to funding from the Cancer Alliance, we have been able to collaborate with trusted community organisations such as One Voice to engage with communities in ways that are accessible, culturally sensitive, and trustworthy. One Voice has been sharing targeted messages through community networks, running engagement sessions, and tackling myths and misinformation around the HPV vaccine. They have also supported local champions to have informed conversations with parents, young people, and community leaders.

At a recent cyber event, many parents asked what to do if they had missed vaccination appointments, while others simply wanted clear information about the HPV vaccine. The team provided practical guidance, shared resources, and signposted families to local services. The conversations were open and reassuring, a reminder of how powerful trusted information can be.

They have also led sessions at Blackburn Youth Zone with staff and young people, emphasising HPV-related cancers and the significance of vaccination. These sessions aimed to dispel myths and promote open discussion.

 Jade Bond, Project Manager at Spring North, said:

“Working with community organisations like One Voice allows us to reach people in trusted spaces and have open, honest conversations about HPV and vaccination. These partnerships are essential in helping families feel informed and confident when making decisions about their health.”

This is exactly why partnership working matters, combining the support of the Cancer Alliance with the reach and trust of local community organisations to ensure families across East Lancashire have the information they need to make informed decisions.