In this episode, we explore the experiences of people with learning disabilities across the cancer care pathway. While everyone has the right to be involved in decisions about their own health and treatment, people with learning disabilities often face significant health inequalities, including barriers to accessing cancer services, understanding information, and having their voices heard. Amanda Cresswell (researcher and contributor of lived experience) and Irene Tuffrey-Wijne (Professor of Intellectual Disability & Palliative Care, Lead of The KIND Research Group) join us to discuss the challenges people with learning disabilities can experience following a cancer diagnosis and throughout treatment and care. We also explore how healthcare professionals can improve outcomes through clear communication, reasonable adjustments, and person-centred approaches that ensure individuals are fully included in conversations and decisions about their care. 
By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to: 
 

• Identify common barriers to communication and involvement in cancer treatment and care for people with learning disabilities 

• Reflect on the emotional and practical effects for people with learning disabilities by not being involved in conversations about one’s own care. 

• Recognise the value of adapting communication and approaches to support individual needs for people with learning disabilities. 

• Reflect on how healthcare professionals can create more inclusive, supportive, and person-centred interactions for people with learning disabilities. 

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer, which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised. 

Links from the episode: 
The Victoria and Stuart Project - https://www.victoriaandstuart.com/ 
Books Beyond Words - https://www.booksbeyondwords.co.uk/resources-dl?rq=funeral 
The DAPPLE Project - https://www.dappleproject.com/ 
How to use ’My funeral cards’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mv1L3ktlUfs 
LeDeR report – learning from the lives and deaths of people with a learning disability-https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/leder 
Easy read cancer information https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/translations-and-other-formats/easy-read-cancer-information 
Nhs passport https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/health-and-care-passports/ 
NHS reasonable adjustments https://www.england.nhs.uk/learning-disabilities/improving-health/reasonable-adjustments/ 

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to make cancer care fair for everyone Read more about Macmillan's strategy. 

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

What does it mean to live with treatable but not curable cancer? 

In this episode, Alyson Thompson shares her lived experience alongside Caroline Tweedie's professional perspective, exploring the realities of living with ongoing treatment, uncertainty, and the impact cancer can have on everyday life. Together, we discuss personalised care, compassionate communication, and how healthcare professionals can help people live well beyond their diagnosis. 
The conversation offers practical insights and powerful reflections for anyone supporting people living with cancer, reminding us of the importance of seeing the person behind the diagnosis and focusing on what matters most to them. 
By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to: 

• Describe the impact that living with treatable but not curable cancer can have on a person's wellbeing, relationships, identity and daily life. 
• Recognise the role of healthcare professionals in supporting people to navigate uncertainty while maintaining hope, autonomy and quality of life. 
• Apply person-centred communication approaches that enable meaningful conversations about individual goals, priorities and support needs. 
• Identify opportunities to improve care and support for people living with treatable but not curable cancer through holistic assessment, personalised care and collaborative decision making. 

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.     

Links from the episode:
Treatable but not curable cancer resources | Healthcare professionals | Macmillan Cancer Support
Treatable But Not Curable Cancer

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective(s) to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. 

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

In this episode, we explore lymphoedema in cancer care, focusing on the physical, emotional and psychological impact. Our guests Carmel Cardona, who shares their experience of living with lymphoedema, and Beccy Elwell, Director of National Clinical Services at Accelerate Health CIC, discuss the physical and emotional challenges, the importance of early recognition and management, and the impact on identity, body image, intimacy and quality of life. They also highlight why person-centred care and greater awareness of lymphoedema are essential to supporting people affected by cancer.  

By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to: 

• Recognise the physical, emotional and psychological impact of lymphoedema for people living with and beyond cancer   
• Understand how lymphoedema can affect body image, intimacy and sexuality, and why these aspects are important but often overlooked in care conversations 
• Support people living with lymphoedema more holistically by addressing physical, emotional and psychosocial needs  
• Identify practical ways health professionals can support people to become active partners in managing lymphoedema and reducing risks and complications.  

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.      

Links from the episode:
Education and Training | Healthcare professionals | Macmillan Cancer Support -To find out more about communication skills on the Macmillan Learning Hub
Lymphoedema, Wound Care Courses & Leg Ulcer Management Training (paid for training) 
Lymphoedema Support Network – LSN – Because Lymphoedema Matters
L-W-O Community | Lymphoedema Support UK & Online 
Home - Lymphoedema United 
British Lymphology Society - BLS 

Find links below to Macmillan resources about lymphoedema and body image for people affected by cancer:
Lymphoedema treatment - lymphatic drainage massage, exercise | Macmillan Cancer Support 
Changes to your appearance and body image | Macmillan Cancer Support 
Sex and side effects of cancer treatment | Macmillan Cancer Support 

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective(s) to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. 

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

How can radiography and cancer care become more inclusive for people living in larger bodies? 

In this episode, Carolyn Graham shares her lived experience of radiography as a person living in a larger body, while Dr Amy Hancock, Director of Medical Imaging at the University of Exeter, explores the research behind the barriers many patients in larger bodies face when accessing healthcare. Together, we discuss weight stigma in healthcare, the impact of negative radiography experiences on cancer screening and diagnosis, and how simple changes in communication, equipment, and patient-centred care can improve outcomes. From providing appropriately sized gowns to using respectful language and having open conversations about comfort and support needs, this episode highlights practical ways healthcare professionals can create more compassionate and inclusive cancer services. 

Whether you're a radiographer, healthcare professional, patient advocate, or someone interested in health equity, this conversation offers valuable insights into improving patient experience and reducing healthcare inequities. 

Content warning: This episode includes discussions of body size, obesity, weight stigma and lived experience of cancer, which some listeners may find upsetting or triggering. 

Links from the episode: 
University of Exeter - Larger Bodies in Radiography (LBinRAD) 

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, and to make cancer care fair for everyone. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. 


Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

What if art could say the things people find hardest to put into words?

In this special live episode from Macmillan’s 2026 Professionals Conference, we explore The Cancer Tapestry- a global community art project bringing together over 1,000 volunteers to stitch their lived experiences of cancer into a powerful collective story.

Joined by artist Andrew Crummy MBE, surgeon Rodney Mountain, and Macmillan’s Eleanor Ogilvie, we discuss how creative expression, storytelling, and community-based art can support emotional wellbeing, reduce isolation, and enhance personalised cancer care. This inspiring conversation highlights the role of arts in healthcare, social prescribing, and person-centred approaches to cancer support.

Discover how creativity can transform cancer care experiences, spark meaningful conversations beyond clinical settings, and connect individuals, families, and communities around the world.

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

Find out more about becoming a Macmillan Affiliate member
If you are a health or social care professional working in cancer care, visit membership.macmillan.org.uk to find out more about our Macmillan Membership which includes a range of education and training resources and access to our Learning Hub.

Links from the episode:
'A Good Thing To Do: Andrew Crummy's Cancer Tapestry' documentary
Andrew Crummy's website
CanDu charity website 

Macmillan information and resources for people affected by cancer:
Head and neck cancer
Talking about cancer
How cancer may affect you emotionally

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most, and to make cancer care fair for everyone. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

In this episode of the Cancer Professionals Podcast, Professor Julian Marchesi and Dr Emma Nicholson explain how the gut microbiome influences immunity, digestion and treatment outcomes. We explore how interventions such as antibiotics and stem cell transplants can disrupt microbiome balance, and examine emerging approaches like faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and insights from the MAST trial. This episode highlights why microbiome diversity matters and what it could mean for improving cancer recovery and care. This episode was produced in collaboration with the UK Oncology Nursing Society (UKONS).

This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.

Find out more about becoming a Macmillan Affiliate member
If you are a health or social care professional working in cancer care, visit membership.macmillan.org.uk to find out more about our Macmillan Membership which includes a range of education and training resources and access to our Learning Hub.

Links from the episode:
Enhanced Acute Oncology - Nutrition 

The MAST study: Intestinal Microbiota Transplant Prior to Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant (MAST) study

Intestinal Microbiota Transplant Prior to Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant (MAST) trial: study protocol for a multicentre, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, phase IIa trial

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. 

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

In this episode, recorded live at Macmillan's 2026 Professionals Conference, we explore Macmillan’s new workforce vision: Macmillan Membership. We are joined by 3 colleagues who played a key role in the development of Macmillan Membership: Kim Bowles, Dr Claire Taylor MBE and Emma Quintal. Hear how this initiative aims to build a more empowered, connected and capable cancer workforce, driving equitable and personalised care. We also discuss how Macmillan Professionals and affiliate members will be supported, recognised, and given the tools to grow, innovate, and lead change.

Find out more about becoming a Macmillan Affiliate member
If you are a health or social care professional working in cancer care, visit membership.macmillan.org.uk to find out more about our Macmillan Membership which includes a range of education and training resources and access to our Learning Hub.

Links from the episode
ACCEND course explorer

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objectives to reach everyone, especially those who need us most.

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

In this episode, we explore HIV and cancer, focusing on how to better support people navigating diagnosis and treatment. Through conversation with Roland Chesters and Emma Davey, we discuss changing outcomes in HIV care, increased cancer risk, and the challenges of navigating multiple healthcare teams.
 
The conversation highlights the impact of stigma, the importance of clear communication and inclusive language, and why person-centred, collaborative care is essential for people living with HIV and cancer. 

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and HIV which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised. 

Links from the episode: 

• EACS Guidelines | EACSociety
• People First Charter - HIV Language, Person First Language
• HIV Drug Interactions
• HIV | Terrence Higgins Trust
• George House Trust
• Roland Chesters ‘Ripples from the edge of life’
• To find out more about the HOPE programme for your patients: macmillan.org.uk/healthcare-professionals/for-your-patients/hope-programme.
• To find out more about becoming a HOPE facilitator, search ‘HOPE’ on Macmillan’s Learning Hub. 

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. 

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

In part 2 of this 2-part episode, we continue the conversation with Andy Woodhead, who is living with dementia, Rachel Daly- Academy Lead Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, and Lorraine Burgess- Macmillan Dementia Nurse Consultant. We explore the realities of living with both dementia and cancer and why person-centred care, clear communication, and greater dementia awareness are essential in supporting people living with cancer and their families.

Links from the episode:
Dementia UK website

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and dementia, which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.    

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

In part 1 of this 2-part episode, we explore the realities of living with both dementia and cancer, and the isolation that can arise when experiences are misunderstood. Through powerful lived experience and expert insight, our guests, Andy Woodhead- who is living with dementia, Rachel Daly- Academy Lead Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, and Lorraine Burgess- Macmillan Dementia Nurse Consultant, discuss the emotional impact of diagnosis, the challenges of treatment and decision-making, and why person-centred care, clear communication, and greater dementia awareness are essential in supporting people living with cancer and their families.

Links from the episode: 
Dementia UK website

This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.

Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer and dementia, which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.    

Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey

If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.