After a comprehensive national review, The Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission (TJBCM) announced a new network of 15 brain tumour centres for children, of which Newcastle was among six to be nationally recognised as a Centre of Excellence.

After an expert-led review of services, TJBCM found that Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals’ met The Tessa Jowell Standards of Excellence in all aspects of treatment, care, and research, with many areas of outstanding service provision.

Each year, around 30 children are diagnosed with a brain tumour in the North East and Cumbria, and the findings revealed Newcastle offered excellent imaging services, comprehensive psychological care, and great education services with extensive school collaboration. Patients were also able to participate and benefit from world-class brain tumour research opportunities.

'Special attention paid to key elements of children’s cancer care'

Professor Steve Clifford, Chair and Director of Molecular Paediatric Oncology, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, said: “Our partnership in paediatric neuro-oncology between the Newcastle University Centre for Cancer and The Great North Children’s Hospital is internationally leading, and we are delighted to be recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Tessa Jowell Mission. 

“This unique collaboration allows us to combine cutting-edge research with our clinical centre and leading roles in international clinical trials, enabling us to drive novel discoveries into clinical practice, improving the standards of care and outlook for children with brain tumours.”

The areas assessed include clinical care, quality of life care and access to clinical trials. Special attention was paid to play therapy and education provision, key elements of children’s cancer care.

New initiative marks the first stage in a national effort

Dr Stephen Lowis, who led the review process, said: “In every team in every city, we found remarkable examples of exceptional and compassionate care. This initiative will support all centres across the UK to develop their services, through national collaboration and the sharing of examples of excellence.”

The launch of this new initiative marks the first stage in a national effort to further elevate the treatment, care, and research for children with brain tumours. For families and young patients, this recognition will provide confidence in the services delivered by centres in the network.

Staff will receive the awards during a ceremony at the Science Gallery London on June 6th in London.

(Press Release adapted with thanks to The Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission)