This week’s meeting of the Cross-Party Group on Brain Tumours in the Scottish Parliament was both powerful and emotional – and marked my final time serving as Secretariat. Expertly chaired by Co-Convenor Finlay Carson MSP, the session once again highlighted the urgent need for fairer, faster access to research, innovation and treatment for those affected by brain tumours.
A highlight of the meeting was an address from Dr Scott Arthur MP, sponsor of the Rare Cancers Bill. Dr Arthur movingly shared the story of his father-in-law, Ivor, who died from glioblastoma in 2017.
He explained how the Bill seeks to address inequalities by boosting research into rare cancers, expanding access to clinical trials, and reviewing drug regulations. Of particular significance to the brain tumour community is the Bill’s focus on ensuring fair access to innovative treatments such as Tumour Treating Fields (TTFields). Already used by more than 35,000 patients worldwide and available in countries including the US, Germany, and Spain, TTFields remain unavailable on the NHS in the UK.
Importantly, Dr Arthur has been consulting with health teams in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland throughout the process, ensuring the Bill reflects the needs of patients across the UK. For patients in Scotland, the Bill could be especially transformative.
The Group also heard from Dr Sarah Kingdon of the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission, who highlighted Scotland’s research strengths while warning of the difficulties patients face in accessing clinical trials across different regions. Chengetayi Pswarayi of Novocure provided industry insight into the barriers preventing new technologies like TTFields from reaching Scottish patients. Kevin Donaghy closed the session with moving reflections from his book Stories of Cancer and Hope, sharing the journey of a glioblastoma patient, diagnosed at just 18.
The meeting underscored both the challenges and opportunities ahead. Scotland has world-class expertise in neuro-oncology and a determined community of patients, researchers, and campaigners. But without urgent political action to break down systemic barriers, too many families will continue to face limited options and unequal access.
On a personal note, it has been a privilege to support the Group’s work. My hope is that Brain Tumour Research will continue to work alongside colleagues from across the cancer and brain tumour community in Scotland, and press for greater investment, transparency, and accountability – ensuring those affected by brain tumours in Scotland are not left behind.
Find out more about our campaigning work in Scotland here.
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