‘Champions of Change’ has been commissioned by the National Cancer Action Team (NCAT), as part of its ‘Cancer does not discriminate’ campaign. The campaign aims to provide a voice to people from black and minority ethnic (BME) communities affected by cancer, so that NHS cancer services can be improved to meet the needs of all people affected by cancer. It also aims to raise awareness of the early signs and symptoms of cancer.

Champions of Change, is being run by Bright Ideas Nottingham and BME Cancer Communities. Champions are local people from visible and non-visible Black and minority ethnic groups.  Together they volunteer their time to provide their views and opinions. They help to make recommendations about cancer services and related health and well being services in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Champions also feed into a national network called the National BME Cancer Voice.

Champions of Change is made up of:

Who can be a Network Champion?

Someone who

• has recent experience of using cancer services, or
• is a carer or has been a carer of someone who has recently used cancer services

Network Champions are from visible and non-visible Black and minority ethnic groups.  However they will work with groups (e.g. The Greater Nottingham Cancer Forum) that consult and engage the wider community. Network Champions must be aged 18 plus.

As a Network Champion you would be asked to give valuable feedback about your experiences,  views and opinions on services.  You will have opportunities to suggest positive changes to cancer and related health and well being services. You will also be part of a national network – the National BME Cancer Voice.  Crucially, you will also help to shape and develop the Champions of Change service itself.

So that we can put forward the collective voices of the network, we will ask you about your views.  This might be face to face, through the post or over the telephone.

You may be asked to take part in a discussion group, comment on a document and so on.  Support will always be available for Champions to carry out their activities.

Who can be a Community Troupe Champion?

You can also become a Champion by volunteering with the service. You can join our Champions of Change Community Troupe if you are aged 16 or over and are

• interested in cancer and carer issues and/or
• interested in informing and supporting others to put forward their views to services

What does the Community Troupe do?

The Community Troupe works alongside Champions of Change staff and Network members in community settings to, for example:

• promote the service
• inform local people about how they can have a say in services both locally and nationally
• help out at stands and community events, meetings, markets, etc.

Other volunteers work behind the scenes to, for example:

• find out more about cancer services in Nottingham / Nottinghamshire
• find out more about how to influence services
• prepare and plan events and activities

What’s in it for me?

• Satisfaction in knowing you are helping to shape services for the better
• The opportunity to influence national agendas
• Support with getting your voice heard or helping others to get their voice heard
• Access to a support group
• Access to a trained counsellor
• Access to WRAP (Wellness Recovery and Action Planning) sessions and other FREE training
• Increase your knowledge about health and well being issues and local services
• Learn new skills and develop existing skills
• Increase your confidence
• Out of pocket expenses

How do I become a Champion of Change?

First of all you need to register your interest with Lisa Jackson, the Champions of Change Facilitator who will arrange a convenient time and place to meet with you.

She will talk you through the Champions of Change service in more detail. She will then discuss with you how you would like to be involved and answer any questions you have.

If you decide to join Champions of Change we will welcome you to register your full interest by completing a brief joining form. You will be taken through an induction and you will receive a volunteer pack. During this time you will be able to discuss any support and training needs you may have.

To find out more about Champions of Change:

Email: info@brightideasnottingham.co.uk

Number: 0115 837 9474

Champions of Change is brought to you by Bright Ideas Nottingham and BME Cancer Communities on behalf of the National Cancer Action Team which is a national NHS cancer team.

Find out more and follow what the Champions are up to at:

Find out about the launch below: