Épisodes

  • Embedding prehabilitation in cancer care: From guidelines to delivery

    Embedding prehabilitation in cancer care: From guidelines to delivery
    Feb 18 2026
    In this episode, we explore the newly published Macmillan Prehabilitation for People with Cancer: Clinical and Implementation Guidelines and what they mean for the future of cancer care. We’re joined by June Davis, Lead Nursing and Allied Health Professional Adviser at Macmillan Cancer Support, and Laura Massouh, Consultant Anaesthetist and Medical Lead for Prehabilitation at Royal Berkshire NHS Trust.

    Together, we unpack what prehabilitation really involves, the evidence underpinning it, and how it can improve outcomes for people affected by cancer. We also discuss how prehabilitation services are being delivered on the ground, including the ongoing work to improve equity of access across the UK. Finally, we look ahead to what’s next - from workforce development to the evolving skills, knowledge, and expertise needed as prehabilitation becomes increasingly embedded within cancer pathways.

    Links from the episode:
    • Prehabilitation for people with cancer: Clinical and implementation guidelines
    • Prehabilitation resources for healthcare professionals | Macmillan Cancer Support
    • Macmillan Cancer Support Blog | Prehabilitation: Transforming cancer care before treatment begins
    • Prehabilitation - Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust
    • Prehabilitation, rehabilitation and personalised care for people living with cancer programme (PRosPer)
    • Guidelines and Resources | Centre for Perioperative Care

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    36 min
  • From knowing to doing: Cultural responsiveness in cancer care

    From knowing to doing: Cultural responsiveness in cancer care
    Feb 4 2026
    In this episode, we explore what cultural responsiveness really looks like in cancer care - beyond policies, buzzwords, and tick-box training. We’re joined by Judith Neptial from From Me To You – The Art of Survival and Israel Eguaogie from iAssist Northern Ireland, who share powerful lived experiences alongside practical, real-world actions that can transform patient care.We explore how power, privilege, language, and trust show up in our interactions with people affected by cancer and how healthcare professionals can respond differently. Our guests break down what culturally responsive practice looks like day-to-day: asking “what matters to you?”, providing meaningful language support, working in partnership with community-led organisations and embedding accountability into care.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which some listeners may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode:
    IAssist Northern Ireland
    From me to you – The Art of Survival
    World Cancer Day

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, and to make cancer care fair for everyone. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    55 min
  • The complexity of pancreatic cancer with Pancreatic Cancer UK

    The complexity of pancreatic cancer with Pancreatic Cancer UK
    Jan 21 2026
    In this episode we explore the complexities of pancreatic cancer with insights from Nicci Murphy, a Clinical Nurse Specialist at Pancreatic Cancer UK, and Alison Batchelor, who shares her personal journey of supporting her husband through his diagnosis. We discuss the challenges of late diagnosis, the critical importance of early detection, and the various support systems available for people living with cancer and their families. Join us as we delve into personal stories and professional insights that highlight the impact of this challenging and complex disease.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about death and bereavement, including a personal account of losing a partner which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode:
    Pancreatic Cancer UK
    Breath test to diagnose pancreatic cancer
    Macmillan website- Pancreatic cancer
    Macmillan booklet- Understanding cancer of the pancreas

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    43 min
  • Creating accessible cancer care for Deaf people

    Creating accessible cancer care for Deaf people
    Jan 7 2026
    In this powerful episode, we are joined by Claire Adshead, Macmillan Deaf Cancer Support Project Manager, and Gillian Briden, who shares her deeply personal - and at times challenging - experiences of accessing cancer care as a deaf person. Gillian’s experience offers vital insight for health and care professionals and highlights the urgent need for accessible communication and culturally aware support.

    Claire shares how the Deaf Cancer Support project is working to improve access, communication and tailored care for Deaf individuals. Together, we explore the systemic challenges faced by Deaf people, from the availability of qualified British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters to the importance of health care services designed with Deaf people in mind. This episode is available in both spoken English and British Sign Language (BSL).

    Note: Claire and Gillian communicate in British Sign Language (BSL). Their responses are voiced by a professional BSL interpreter. All dialogue attributed to the guests represents the interpreter’s spoken interpretation of their signed responses.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode:
    Macmillan Deaf Cancer Support Project
    Macmillan's British Sign Language Services

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, to make cancer care fair for everyone and offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    56 min
  • Inside radiotherapy: Treatment, experience and compassionate care

    Inside radiotherapy: Treatment, experience and compassionate care
    Dec 3 2025
    In this episode we delve into the world of radiotherapy with expert insights and personal stories. We’re joined by Jane Ewang, Lead Radiotherapy Clinical Nurse Specialist and Roy Shufflebotham, who shares his personal experience of undergoing radiotherapy treatment. We break down what radiotherapy is, how it works, and what people might experience throughout their treatment. Together, they share insights into the challenges and experiences of treatment, as well as practical, person-centred ways healthcare professionals can support people before, during, and after radiotherapy.

    This episode is produced by Macmillan Cancer Support in collaboration with UKONS.

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links
    Macmillan website- Radiotherapy
    Macmillan's 'Understanding Radiotherapy' audiobook
    Radiotherapy factsheet (available in 16 languages)

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    57 min
  • Rethinking neurodiversity and physical disability in cancer care

    Rethinking neurodiversity and physical disability in cancer care
    Nov 5 2025
    In this episode Ruth Bailey, Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Chair of the Royal College of Nursing Women's Health Forum, and Jessie Hewitson, Director of NeuroUniverse, dive into the realities autistic and physically disabled people face when accessing cervical screening and cancer care. We explore the barriers- from sensory challenges to communication hurdles- and share how inclusive healthcare guidance is helping to close the gap. Through open conversation and lived experience, Ruth and Jessie reveal how small, thoughtful adjustments can make a world of difference for people navigating the cancer pathway.

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to make cancer care fair for everyone and offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    Links from the episode:
    NeuroUniverse
    Cervical Screening for Physically Disabled Women and Autistic Women- professional resource
    The Eve Appeal
    The Oliver McGowan mandatory training on learning disability and autism
    NHS Cervical Screening programme

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    50 min
  • Menopause and cancer: What we need to talk about

    Menopause and cancer: What we need to talk about
    Oct 1 2025
    This episode of the Cancer Professionals Podcast delves into the often-overlooked topic of menopause and its implications for people living with cancer. The discussion features insights from Dani Binnington, founder of Menopause and Cancer, and Professor Richard Simcock, Chief Medical Officer at Macmillan and Consultant Clinical Oncologist, who highlights the complexities of menopause as a result of cancer treatments.
    They explore the emotional and physical challenges faced by people affected, the importance of awareness and education, and the role of healthcare professionals in providing support. The conversation emphasises the need for better preparation, acknowledgment of symptoms, the availability of treatment options, and other strategies to manage menopausal symptoms effectively.

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions and work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode:
    Menopause and cancer

    Resources to share with the people you support
    Find links below to Macmillan's resources about menopause for people affected by cancer:
    Menopausal symptoms and cancer treatment
    The reproductive system
    Bone health
    Side effects of cancer treatment This booklet is also available as an audiobook.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    59 min
  • From helpline to lifeline: The power of acute oncology

    From helpline to lifeline: The power of acute oncology
    Sep 3 2025
    In this episode, we delve into the vital, fast-paced world of Acute Oncology - a critical yet often under-recognised area of cancer care. We’re joined by Naomi Clatworthy, an Acute Oncology Nurse Consultant, and Peter Cook, who shares his powerful personal experience of a rare oncological emergency known as Triple M.

    Ahead of UK Acute Oncology Society Awareness Day on 6th October 2025, we explore the evolution of Acute Oncology Services, how they’re transforming patient care, and the crucial role they play in responding to cancer-related emergencies. From referral pathways and service models to real-world challenges, clinical insights, and lived experience, this episode highlights the importance of timely, expert care in improving outcomes and saving lives. This episode is produced by Macmillan Cancer Support in collaboration with UKONS.

    Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and oncological emergencies which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

    Links from the episode: ·
    UK Oncology Nursing Society (UKONS)
    UK Acute Oncology Society
    Acute Oncology (AO) competency passport
    The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre acute oncology guidance

    This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

    We would love to hear from you! Let us know any feedback you have about this episode by completing this short survey or get in touch at professionalspodcast@macmillan.org.uk.

    If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

    Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.
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    50 min