In June 2025 we published Unique Among Cancers, drawing on the experiences of almost 400 people affected by sarcoma and specialist healthcare professionals. The report set out a series of recommendations to improve diagnosis, treatment and support for everyone living with sarcoma.
Six months on, we have continued to work closely with partners across the UK to make sure the recommendations are acted on and not forgotten. This update outlines the progress made so far and the foundations now in place for the next stage of work.
Early diagnosis: pathway development underway
Improving early diagnosis was a central recommendation of the report. A standardised diagnostic pathway for sarcoma is now in development through a partnership between NHS England and Sarcoma UK’s Early Diagnosis Steering Group.
The proposed Best Practice Timed Pathway will be presented at the British Sarcoma Group conference early next year, with implementation hoped for by late summer. This is a significant step toward reducing variation and giving people a clearer route to diagnosis.
Engagement with elected representatives in all four nations
Over the past six months we have met with elected representatives across the UK to discuss the report and the changes needed. These meetings included:
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Northern Ireland Mike Nesbitt and Danny Donnelly
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Scotland Joe Fitzpatrick and Jackie Baillie
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Wales Mabon ap Gwynfor and James Evans
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Westminster Dr Scott Arthur and Dr Caroline Johnson
These conversations have helped ensure sarcoma remains part of wider political discussions on cancer services and early diagnosis.
Sarcoma raised in Parliament and devolved assemblies
There have been seven direct references to the report across UK legislatures, including five in Westminster, one in the Senedd and one in the Scottish Parliament. In addition, sarcoma has been mentioned in seventeen Parliamentary Questions or debates since June. This level of attention is unusual for a rare cancer and reflects growing recognition of the need for change.
Bringing people together in Parliament
To support the report’s launch, we held three Parliamentary events in the House of Commons, the Welsh Senedd and the Northern Ireland Assembly. A fourth event is being planned for the Scottish Parliament.
These events brought together patients, clinicians and elected representatives, including the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and the Northern Ireland Health Minister. Hearing directly from people affected by sarcoma has been important in shaping political understanding and support.
What happens next
Much of this work is about building the conditions for long-term progress. Over the next year we will continue to support the development of the diagnostic pathway, strengthen our relationships across the health system and keep sarcoma on the political agenda.
People affected by sarcoma told us clearly what needs to change. We remain committed to ensuring those voices continue to influence policy and practice across the UK.
Read Unique Among Cancers online.
