5 reflections from 2024: A Year of Progress and Perseverance

As 2024 draws to a close, the dedication of Cancer Research UK (CRUK) 's researchers, staff and volunteers remains unwavering. Our Trading team are in the middle of one of their busiest times of the year, serving our generous supporters online and in our shops and superstores across the UK. If you are looking for any last-minute gifts for family and friends, you know where to go!?

Like many charities, we’ve faced numerous opportunities and challenges?this year. We have continuously adapted to the changing external environment. One thing that has remained steadfast is our focus on our mission – to reduce the impact of cancer on people’s day-to-day lives through our research, influence and information. It’s been a year of both progress and perseverance, and I've noted a few reflections as I look ahead to the next 12 months.?

#1 We’re not content with research breakthroughs alone?

Our world-class network of scientists and researchers have made significant breakthroughs once again this year. These breakthroughs represent hope for people affected by cancer across the UK, like the BARCODE study that could pave the way for a more reliable screening test for prostate cancer. Or findings from Cancer Grand Challenges team eDyNAmiC and international collaborators demonstrating the prevalence and importance of extrachromosomal DNA in cancer.?

I take immense pride in progress like this, but part of what makes Cancer Research UK special is that we don’t stop there. We aim to translate research into new tests and treatments that directly benefit cancer patients through Cancer Research Horizons – adding to the 14 new drugs that we’ve brought to market. We use our voice to inform and influence policy shifts that could reduce cancer cases, and we continue to provide people affected by cancer with clear, evidence-based information to support them when dealing with a diagnosis.?

?

#2 Partnership will be at the heart of our future success?

We spent ￡399m on cancer research in 2023-24. It’s a substantial investment that will reap rewards for many years to come, but even with that level of funding, we are forced to turn down forefront and outstanding research each year. One way that we’re increasingly accelerating our impact is by partnering with like-minded organisations across the world.?

In September, we combined forces with LifeArc to create C-Further, a consortium aimed at driving progress in children and young people’s cancers, having identified a need to change the way cancer drugs affecting 0-24-year-olds are discovered, developed and brought to market. Achieving this vision will require partnership at every stage from providing funding to contributing expert capabilities and extending the reach of C-Further. ?

Cancer Research Horizons’ Seed Fund which, as well as providing early-stage capital, helps start-ups attract co-investment has now made 26 investments totalling a commitment of ￡8m, which in turn has attracted over ￡32m of co-investment through local, European and international investors.??

Our More Research, Less Cancer philanthropy campaign continues to attract investment from global impact grant makers, and we recently passed the halfway mark towards our ￡400m campaign target following generous gifts from Oak Foundation and Garfield Weston Foundation . ?

Our corporate partners also play an essential role in raising much-needed funds through innovative fundraising methods. I’m grateful to all who supported our work in 2024 and look forward to working closely with many again.?

?

#3 Transformation is hard, but essential?

To continue making progress for people affected by cancer, we’re navigating a challenging environment filled with opportunities and obstacles. We are making strategic decisions to transform and become an even more effective and efficient charity. One key initiative is our ongoing digital and data transformation programme.?

We understand that the expectations of our supporters, campaigners and volunteers have evolved and it’s critical we adapt to meet their aspirations and needs. This transformation programme promises to elevate our impact, deepen engagement with supporters, and drive growth. While we have faced challenges, we are committed to learning and implementing those lessons to ensure continuous great progress. ?

?

#4 The contribution of the charity sector is as significant as it’s ever been?

Last year, we published data showing that in the UK, excluding research funded by industry, charities fund approximately 62% of cancer research, compared to 38% from the UK Government. This statistic underscores the vital role that charities play when it comes to funding, but our contribution extends far beyond that.?

Through campaigning, we’ve had great success in 2024. The image at the top of this article is of over 75 of our inspiring ambassadors in Westminster last month as part of our smokefree UK campaign. Many met with their MPs to share why they and the charity support the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.?

Our smokefree UK campaign started back in 2022, and Cancer Research UK’s efforts to tackle tobacco and smoking date back over two decades. We were thrilled to see the legislation pass through its second reading with 415 votes in favour and 47 against. This achievement is due to evidence, impact and actions of our supporters and other charities. We?hope to see the legislation implemented in 2025 to help accelerate the journey towards a smokefree UK.?

?

#5 This is the most rewarding role of my career?

I’ve been fortunate to have worked for several highly impactful non-profit organisations over the previous 25+ years. Each one has provided me with a great deal of satisfaction for many reasons, but never more so than when making a real difference for people in need of support.?

A fortnight ago, we had an end of year event at Cancer Research UK, looking back on the previous 12 months and hearing from three inspiring panellists, Dr Tessa Hartmann CBE , Dr Mary McCormack and Simon West ( ACMA, MInstLM ) . We also heard from our staff about their proudest moments from the year. The stories encapsulated what Cancer Research UK is all about: the hope brought to those living with a cancer diagnosis; the tireless efforts of researchers and clinicians; and the incredible feats of supporters and fundraisers. For me, nothing brings me greater motivation.?