Reflections from the first engagement session of the Learning Disability Cancer Champions Project – 9 July 2025 

The first engagement session of the Learning Disability Cancer Champions Project took place at Huddersfield Mission, bringing together 10 adults with Learning Disabilities to help shape the design of their upcoming cancer screening awareness training. 

The engagement session was led by Jo Vaughan (Engagement Co-Ordinator) and supported by Preeya Patel, Health Inequalities and Inclusion Lead, who is also leading the overall project. 

Participants were supported by: 

• Jess and Lucy, Learning Disability Nurses from SWYFT 
• Staff from Ability Options 
• Lauren from Yorkshire Cancer Community 
• And team members from Cloverleaf 

Together, they explored: 

• What the word “Champion” means 
• What would make lessons feel welcoming and useful 
• Preferred language and communication styles 
• Ideas for celebrating achievements 
• Any other suggestions from the group 

Preeya said, “It was a privilege to hear such honest and thoughtful feedback. The ideas shared today will directly shape how we move forward.” 

Easy read consent and evaluation materials were used, with participants commenting on how much they appreciated the clarity and format. 

Funded by the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance and delivered in partnership with Locala, Kirklees Action Network (KAN) and SWYFT, the project aims to reduce health inequalities and improve access to cancer screening for people with learning disabilities. The first formal learning session will take place in September.