Published on 31 July 2024
Do you want to join the Cancer Alliance’s People Panel, which includes non-cancer experience members of the public who volunteer their time to read draft patient information, answer surveys and review documentation?
As a member of our People Panel you would be sent copies of patient information, such as leaflets and letters, to help us ensure that they are clear and easy to understand before they are published. You may also be asked to take part in workshops or be involved in projects to provide a non-cancer patient voice.
The Cancer Alliance needs a People Panel because there are members of the public who attend screening appointments or are referred on an urgent basis but do not receive a cancer diagnosis. So we need to consult non-cancer experience people as this will help to ensure that written information is as accessible as possible to the diverse population served within the local community.
To protect the environment, panel members are encouraged to receive information by email. Information can be posted to individual members who do not have email access.
People Panel members will be asked for their comments on draft patient information, including:
• Does the information make sense?
• Is it clear what the information is about?
• Is the information presented clearly?
• Is the information easy to understand?
• Are unusual words or abbreviations explained?
• Are the risks and benefits identified where appropriate?
• Is it helpful?
• Does the information leave you with further questions?
• Are other sources of information identified, for example support groups and websites?
• Is any information missing?
Any aspect of the leaflet can be commented upon if you feel it needs either improvement or praise. These comments are then shared with the author and taken into account when the final leaflets are produced.
You may also be asked if you would like to attend a workshop or focus group to provide feedback on certain topics relating to screening/primary care for example. These will either be in person or digitally.
Project managers may also require people panel members to join project teams to provide perspective on certain areas of work or be involved in materials to promote cancer screening, for example. A member of the patient engagement team will support you whilst involved in projects.
If you are interested, please email ccf-tr.hipe@nhs.net or visit our Get Involved page: https://cmcanceralliance.nhs.uk/public-information/get-involved.