Lancashire and South Cumbria Cancer Alliance Launches New Grants Scheme to Boost Cancer Awareness and Early Diagnosis

Lancashire and South Cumbria Cancer Alliance has announced the launch of its latest round of small grants funding, offering up to £10,000 to local voluntary sector organisations to delivery projects that will improve cancer awareness and support early diagnosis.

Delivered in collaboration with Spring North, a charity and membership network supporting voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations, the initiative aims to empower communities to deliver impactful projects that will raise awareness of cancer signs and symptoms, encourage participation in screening and vaccination programmes, address barrier to care, and support people to seek early help.

Speaking about the scheme, Cancer Alliance Managing Director Fleur Carney said: "We are delighted to be working with Spring North again to continue our commitment to improving cancer awareness and early diagnosis in our communities through this funding scheme. By empowering local projects with these grants, we aim to make a significant impact on cancer outcomes and ensure that more people have the knowledge and support they need to participate in cancer screening and vaccination programmes and seek help early with cancer signs and symptoms. Together, we can make a real difference.”

The scheme recognises the essential role that grassroots organisations play by funding activities that are culturally sensitive, relevant, and informed by local experience. Fleur Carney added: “This investment in the VCFSE sector highlights the vital role these organisations play in communities throughout Lancashire and South Cumbria. They are trusted presences in their local communities and will help us to reach people who often do not engage with NHS information or services.”

Spring North will oversee the grants process on behalf of the Cancer Alliance and provide support to organisations from application through to delivery and evaluation. Their experienced team will offer guidance, connect groups with wider partners, and help showcase the impact of funded projects, ensuring grassroots organisations have the confidence and resources needed to create lasting change.

Martin Hartley-Smith, Chief Executive of Spring North, said: “Our partnership with the Cancer Alliance has already demonstrated how effective this approach can be. The projects funded through last year’s scheme reached thousands of people across Lancashire and South Cumbria, raising awareness of cancer symptoms, encouraging screening, and supporting individuals to seek help sooner. By working together, we have seen the impact that trusted local organisations can have when they receive the resources and support to act. This next round of funding builds on that success, placing communities at the centre of the effort to improve early diagnosis and ultimately save lives.”

The scheme specifically targets communities facing the poorest cancer outcomes and those experiencing barriers to accessing care. Eligible projects may include awareness events, peer-led workshops, storytelling initiatives, and myth-busting campaigns, all designed to improve understanding and encourage people to seek help promptly.

Applications are open now and will close on 3 October 2025. Funded projects are expected to run for between six and twelve months. To apply please click here: EOI - L&SC ICB Cancer Alliance Small Grant Scheme for VCFSE Organisations