On December 3rd, Brain Tumour Research hosted a compelling webinar featuring former Health Minister Will Quince, providing invaluable insights into effective campaigning for increased funding and support for brain tumour research. The online event, attended by patients, advocates, and supporters, emphasized strategies to engage policymakers and amplify awareness around the pressing need for more investment in brain tumour studies.
Brain Tumour Research’s Impact in Wales
Regarding Wales, Brain Tumour Research has been actively showcasing the impact of its funded initiatives. Over the summer, the organization participated in a medical research showcase, featuring Cardiff University’s Dr Ben Newland, who is funded through the charity. The event underscored the importance of local research efforts, with advocate Rees Holmes exemplifying community support.
The charity has also prioritized engaging with Welsh policymakers. A significant milestone was a meeting with the then-Health Minister, Eluned Morgan, now the First Minister of Wales, alongside the Wales Cancer Alliance. These discussions have helped shape strategies to advance research funding and policy improvements for cancer care in the region.
The Funding Conundrum
“Investing in research is key to breakthroughs—if you don’t, you won’t,” Quince remarked, emphasizing the urgency of deploying available funds effectively. However, as of late 2023, only a fraction of the allocated £40 million—approximately £15 million—had been spent, depending on the metrics used. “In theory, it’s an easy fix, right? The money’s there. So why isn’t it being spent?” he questioned.
The underlying issues extend beyond financial allocation. Quince’s investigation revealed systemic barriers, including a scarcity of high-quality fundable bids, limited interest from pharmaceutical companies, and the inherent complexity of brain tumour research. “It’s a relatively small patient group with a tragically poor prognosis. The brain is an extraordinarily complex organ, and clinical trials are few,” he explained.
Quince drew parallels with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) research, which faced similar funding obstacles but gained momentum through high-profile advocacy campaigns. Figures like Rob Burrow and Doddie Weir amplified public awareness and pressure on policymakers, resulting in greater resource allocation.
“I think actually the noise and the tempo with which you and Thomas (Policy and Public Affairs Officer of Brain Tumour Research) and so many of the campaigners you have around the country in all the constituencies do make such a big difference,” Quince emphasized. “Campaigns that keep an issue in the public and political consciousness—whether it’s Marcus Rashford on free school meals or Rob Burrow on MND — because these campaigns bring energy and pressure is put on individual MPs and Ministers.”
Charting a Path for Change
This webinar illuminated the critical need for systemic reform and enduring advocacy in brain tumour research. By amplifying voices and sustaining momentum, stakeholders can forge pathways to transformative breakthroughs. David Rees, Chair of the Cross-Party Group on Cancer in Wales, encapsulated the stakes with a powerful statement: “Research saves lives. Every pound invested in research generates multiple returns—not just in money, but also in terms of outcomes.”
His words highlight the profound ripple effects of research funding, extending from the development of innovative treatments to the priceless hope it brings to families facing life-altering diagnoses. It’s a poignant reminder that advocacy is not just about funding but also about fostering a future of possibility and resilience for patients and their loved ones.
Written by Sean Killen
