This position statement is submitted by the Advanced Clinical Practitioners Special Interest Group (ACP SIG) of CCLG: The Children & Young People’s Cancer Association. It is supported by CCLG and is issued in response to the publication ‘Preventing doctor substitution’ issued 29th January 2026 by the BMA.
Jude Solley was diagnosed with mixed-phenotype acute leukaemia (MPAL) in 2021 aged 16. Now, 21, he explains how this caused him to struggle with body image issues, why he decided to reach out for help, and why he advises others to do the same as soon as possible.
Dr Nicola O'Donnell is a health psychologist and a researcher at the University of York. Here, she tells us about her research into the impact of retinoblastoma treatment on survivors’ body image and how her team is taking it forward to help those treated for other childhood cancers.
Dr Rebecca Mulholland is Senior Clinical Psychologist at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Here, she explains how a child or young person might feel about changes to their appearance due to treatment, and how you can support them.
Kira Noble was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2014 aged 11. Now 22, she explains the impact hair loss had on her during treatment, and how her experiences have shaped her choice of career.
The North Star Cancer Collective is a system-wide movement, bringing together people and organisations to improve cancer care for children, young people and their families. Guided by evidence, the North Star Cancer Collective works across the system – not just within individual organisations – to create a better future.
Chelsey Rowntree, Youth Support Worker at Candlelighters, shares what her work involves, what inspires her, and the difference supporting children and families affected by cancer makes to her every day.
Katie Oates was three years old when diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2009. Now 19, she tells us how her cancer and its treatment shaped her relationship with her appearance and how she has learnt to be proud of her body.
Research focus: Enhancing CAR T-cell expansion and prolonged persistence for the effective treatment of paediatric medulloblastoma
