Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has attended an event celebrating the launch of a new best practice and Regional Model of Care and Standards for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) with cancer in Northern Ireland.

This initiative marks a significant step in delivering Action 33 of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy 2022–2032 and underscores the collaborative commitment across the health sector, charities, and young people to ensure the highest quality, age-appropriate care for those diagnosed with cancer during adolescence or young adulthood. The launch also coincides with the end of Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month.

The Regional Model of Care and Standards have been developed through co-production with healthcare professionals, partner organisations, and importantly, young people and their families, whose personal experiences have been crucial in shaping a more patient-centred approach to services.

Speaking at the event, Minister Nesbitt emphasised the importance of this collaborative approach. "Collaboration and co-production have been embedded at the heart of the development of the minimum standards and model of care, and I am keen to see this continue as we progress with the implementation," he said.

He highlighted the comprehensive nature of the new framework. "This vital framework represents a significant step forward in making sure that young people receive not just excellent clinical treatment, but holistic, developmentally age-appropriate support that acknowledges the educational, emotional and social aspects of their journey." Minister Nesbitt acknowledged the unique challenges faced by young people with cancer. "Adolescence and young adulthood are times of immense change and development, and a cancer diagnosis at this stage presents unique personal challenges. The new standards, shaped with the voices of young people, healthcare professionals, and charities, set out our commitment to delivering the best possible care, enhancing outcomes, and ensuring that no young person faces cancer alone."

He extended his gratitude to all those involved. "I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all those who are involved in this essential work. Your expertise, passion, and lived experience continues to be instrumental in shaping a service that will provide equitable, high-quality, and compassionate care for every young person in Northern Ireland."

The event also featured moving testimonies from young people who have experienced cancer and who played a vital role in shaping the new standards by sharing their insights and priorities for improved care.

AYA cancer services in Northern Ireland will be delivered through a regional, networked model with Principal Treatment Centres (PTCs) for both paediatric and adult services located at the Belfast Trust. The AYA cancer service will cater to individuals aged 13 to 25. This model aims to integrate key teams and personnel involved in both the clinical and holistic aspects of the care pathway.

The primary goal of the service model is to ensure that service users can access the most appropriate care, including clinical trials, in the right place and at the right time, while also benefiting from coordinated holistic and psychosocial support.