CANCER services across St Helens have been rated as 'good' following an assessment by NHS England.

In St Helens during 2017/18 1,560 people were admitted to hospital with some form of cancer diagnosis.

The annual assessment is based on four key indicators: Cancer diagnosed at an early stage, people with an urgent GP referral having definitive treatment for cancer within 62 days, one year survival from all cancers and cancer patient experience.

Though data published by NHS England from April to June shows that nationally cancer waiting times are at their worst ever level, St Helens continues to buck this trend and in the local area is top for commissioner-based waiting times for the 62 day target.

Professor Sarah O’Brien, strategic director people's services and clinical accountable officer said: “We are pleased to have maintained our “good” rating for the assessment around local cancer services; however we are working hard within the CCG and our providers to ensure local services continue to meet the needs of the local community and they have positive experiences of accessing cancer services.

“This year the CCG was recognised for its hard work and was identified as one of the ‘most improved’ CCGs for their one year cancer survival rate and progress made to improve local cancer care.

“Cancer will affect most people within their lifetime either directly or through those that are close to them, therefore it is important to continually monitor and improve local services ensuring timely access to treatment for patients as well supporting the wider community to live healthier lifestyles, minimising the risk of certain cancers.

“I would like to thank all the staff, clinicians, patients and carers who have worked with us during the last 12 months and look forward to working with you all in the next 12 months to continue to develop cancer services in St Helens.”