We only fund early stage children’s cancer research. This is known as seed-funding or pump-priming. It’s the process of helping a research project or idea get off the ground by providing initial funding. The Children’s Cancer Research Fund is unique in our role of kickstarting new childhood cancer research projects.
Without that first bit of investment, many new ideas would never see the light of day and never be given the chance to potentially improve the treatment and outlook for children with cancer.
The initial studies we fund are the starting point for all major clinical trials, the creation of new drugs and a potential step change in childhood cancer treatment.
We award small funding amounts of typically £70,000 per project to give researchers the opportunity to produce 12 months of data and evidence. They can then use this to secure further, large scale investment from other organisations to take the research forward.
Together, we can give all children with cancer a brighter future. Become a supporter and help us.
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Nancy, 11, was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma when she was just 2 years old. She was treated with Proton Beam Therapy (PBT) in Germany but unfortunately relapsed less than a year later. The family were then sent to Germany for a second round of PBT. Although treatment helped to cure Nancy’s cancer, she has been left with lots of lasting effects which will require ongoing treatment throughout her life. Here Nancy and her mum, Antonia, share their story in the hope it will help others, raise awareness, and raise more money for children’s cancer research.
Why I am a Trustee of CCRF
I have spent my professional career representing individuals and families affected by the devastating asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma, which has no cure and for which there are only a limited number of palliative treatments available on the NHS.
I joined CCRF because I wanted to bring my understanding of the need to raise awareness of less well known cancers and passion for the need to secure improved funding for research to children facing a cancer diagnosis.
My role on the Board
I am responsible for oversight of our collaboration agreements with other charities to co-fund research into cures and treatments for childhood cancers. I also manage our challenge events and help with community fundraising.
My Background
I am a Senior Associate at Irwin Mitchell LLP and specialise in Asbestos Disease Litigation, acting on behalf of victims of asbestos related diseases and their families. Over the years, I have undertaken a number of fundraising challenges to raise money for cancer research, including a 1000 mile cycle ride from Glasgow to Southampton.
