Target Talks: Interview with Jessica Potter

How long have you worked at Target Ovarian Cancer, and can you tell us a little about what you do in your role as Senior Policy & Parliamentary Officer?

"I’ve worked at Target Ovarian Cancer for just over two years now and have been in the role of Senior Policy & Parliamentary officer for 8 months.?As part of my role, I lead on our Parliamentary work, engaging with MPs and representatives across the devolved nations, working with those who have the power to make decisions that can improve the lives of women with ovarian cancer".?

What led you to the role you’re in today???

"I’ve always had an interest in both women’s health and politics. I studied politics at university and went on to work in an MP’s office for two years before working at Target Ovarian Cancer. This role allowed me to see first-hand the issues constituents were raising and the role an MP can play in supporting constituents and raising their concerns in Parliament".

What are some of your proudest achievements in the policy and campaigns team at Target Ovarian Cancer?

"I’m really proud of our open letter, which called on the government to sustain investment in awareness campaigns and shorten the diagnostic pathway for ovarian cancer. This letter received over 21,000 signatures from across the UK and It was such an empowering afternoon when we delivered the letter to No.10 Downing Street with some of our wonderful campaigners. The day highlighted the difference we can make when we come together".

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Can you share details of your recent launch of Target Ovarian Cancer champions??

"As part of our aim to increase our engagement with representatives we developed the Target Ovarian Cancer champion programme.

"With September marking Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month we wanted to use this an opportunity to reach out to representatives across the UK asking them to work with us and continue to support our calls for greater awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, early diagnosis, and better access to treatment.??

?"We hope the role of being a Target Ovarian Cancer Champion will allow us to work more directly with representatives and help us support women diagnosed across the UK - ensuring they’re able to access the tests and treatment they need, when they need it".

What changes would you like to see in ovarian cancer policy over the next 10 years?

"The earlier a woman is diagnosed the greater her chance of survival, with 93% of women diagnosed at the earliest stage surviving for at least five years compared to just 13% of women diagnosed at the most advanced stage.?

"We continue to see delays in the diagnosis pathway, which is why one of changes I would most like to see would be for the diagnostic pathway for ovarian cancer to be shortened. With the CA125 blood test and ultrasound undertaken at the same time, women could receive their diagnosis quicker and begin treatment as soon as possible".?

What are your 3 top tips for someone interested in working in Policy and Campaigns within the charity sector?

"I think it’s important to be passionate about the issue and charity that you’re working for. I’d suggest researching and reflecting on the issues and organisations that interest you, and how you want to help make a difference.

"I’d also suggest having an interest in politics and the workings of parliament. We ultimately want to influence decision makers to make change, and having an understanding of how we can engage with representatives will really help when working in a policy and campaigns team.??

"My final tip would be to take the time to understand why you/the charity are calling for change and who you’re doing this for. Listening and speaking to women affected by ovarian cancer is the biggest driver for us wanting to make a difference".

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