Councilor hails cancer scheme investment

Trials aimed at reducing deaths

Tiverton and Minehead MP Rachel Gilmour is celebrating new funding that will mean £1.4 million invested in a cancer research programme in Devon.

Devon Partnership NHS Trust will use the money to buy a new modular building that can be used for future cancer-related clinical trials in a bid to reduce deaths from the disease.

The cash comes from a £30 million pot overseen by the Department of Health and Social Care, linked to a fast-track vital research investment programme being delivered by the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR).

“I welcome the government’s announcement which will see a substantial amount of money invested into the Devon Partnership NHS Trust,” Ms Gilmour said.

“I hope that with this investment in Devon and across the other sites across the country, we can take a step forward in the development of cures for some of the cruellest diseases.

“I am glad the new Labour government is putting their money where their mouth is, unlike the previous Conservative government which ran the NHS into the ground.”

Professor Lucy Chappell, chief executive of the NIHR, said the “significant investment” would provide NHS trusts with high-quality equipment, technology and facilities for cutting-edge research.

“The NIHR is directing this funding so that it reaches the areas and people with the greatest need, giving more communities the chance to take part in life-changing clinical trials,” she said.

“This will not only benefit patients directly, but also support the economic growth of the country, helping to position the UK as an attractive place for innovative companies to invest in research.”

According to Cancer Research UK, cancer causes one in four deaths in the UK.