The government is partnering with Breast Cancer Now, the UK's largest breast cancer charity, for a three-year initiative to enhance support for women throughout their breast cancer journey. Announced on 5 October 2026, the collaboration aims to help women recognise potential signs of the disease earlier and provide access to reliable post-treatment information.
This action follows new research from Breast Cancer Now, which found that almost a third (29%) of women in England who regularly check their breasts do not feel confident in identifying changes. Additionally, 11% of those checking less than once a month stated they do not know what symptoms to look for. One in five (20%) UK adults also reported a lack of confidence in finding trusted breast cancer information if they had concerns.
The partnership, which marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is the first to be announced under the Renewed Women’s Health Strategy. It will provide practical information to build confidence in breast checking, recognising changes, and seeking advice sooner, particularly in underserved areas. Women will also receive better support after treatment, including information on potential signs of recurrence and healthy lifestyle guidance. Healthcare professionals will be offered additional training and a toolkit to assist women adapting post-treatment.
Baroness Merron, Minister for Women’s Health and Maternity, emphasised the importance of early diagnosis for survival rates. Rachel Franklin, Deputy Chief Executive at Breast Cancer Now, stated that the partnership will drive progress faster and save lives, noting that almost 100% of people diagnosed at stage 1 survive for at least five years, compared to 32% at stage 4.