Patients across the South East are reporting positive experiences of their cancer care, according to the 2025 National Cancer Patient Experience Survey. The findings, based on feedback from more than 12,800 people across the region, show that more patients are getting the clear information they need before diagnostic tests, receiving stronger support from hospital staff, and experiencing better communication throughout their care. 

More than nine in ten patients in every South East Cancer Alliance said they received all the information they needed before their diagnostic test — providing clarity and reassurance at one of the most difficult moments in a person’s cancer journey. 

Patients also reported good experiences of support from hospital staff during treatment, with an average of 73% of patients saying they definitely got the right level of support. This reflects the work of clinical teams to provide practical advice, emotional support and continuity of care, particularly during inpatient stays and day‑case treatment. 

Across all four alliances, patients responded strongly when asked whether they had a main contact person within their care team — a key measure of personalised, coordinated care. Wessex and Kent & Medway reported high scores of 93% and 90%, while Thames Valley and Surrey & Sussex were slightly lower at 89%. 

Patients also continue to report confidence in their clinical teams, strong communication at diagnosis, and high levels of dignity and respect during hospital care. Wessex delivered one of the strongest performances nationally, with all key measures falling within the expected range, while Surrey & Sussex saw above‑expected scores for confidence in hospital teams and pain control. 

Dr Christopher Tibbs, NHS England South East Medical Director, said: “Patients across the South East are telling us they feel better informed, better supported and more confident in their care. Knowing that people are getting clear information before tests, receiving the right support from staff, and being treated with dignity throughout their treatment really matters — especially at such a difficult time in their lives. 

“We’re proud of the progress our cancer alliances and providers have made, and we’re focused on the areas where patients say we can do more, particularly making sure everyone has a named contact they can reach when they need help or reassurance. These results show the difference that better communication, modern facilities and more personalised care make for patients and their families, and we’re committed to building on that across the South East.” 

Across the region, NHS teams are already delivering some of the most advanced cancer innovations in the country. Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust continues to lead the way in diagnostics, robotics and research. It is using AI to help read X-rays and speed up cancer diagnoses — prioritising scans that flag concerns and acting as a ‘second pair of eyes’ to support clinical decision‑making. 

The trust has also introduced a new rehabilitation service for patients recovering from major cancer surgery, improving physical recovery and quality of life, and opened a second dedicated oncology ward to meet rising demand. Its research portfolio includes trials showing some women with early‑stage breast cancer can safely avoid radiotherapy after mastectomy, and studies exploring how exercise during chemotherapy may strengthen the immune response. 

Earlier this year, the foundation stone was laid for the new Sussex Cancer Centre at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. The centre will become a state‑of‑the‑art regional hub treating up to 60,000 patients a year and is due to open in 2029. University Hospitals Sussex is also working to bring cancer care closer to home in line with the 10‑Year Health Plan, including a new head and neck cancer treatment pathway at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit, meaning patients no longer need to travel to Brighton for treatment and support not just cancer treatment but wellbeing and recovery. 

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) is delivering major advances across the cancer pathway. The Rapid Intervention for Palliative and End of Life Care project has transformed support for people at the end of life, helping more than 4,500 patients receive personalised care at home and avoiding 19,400 unplanned bed days. The Suspected Cancer Pathway (SCAN), now standard across the region, is helping diagnose cancer and other serious conditions earlier for patients with vague symptoms such as fatigue or weight loss. 

OUH is also pioneering 3D imaging and printing for head and neck cancer surgery, expanding early detection of anal cancers through new specialist equipment, and supporting people finishing treatment through new health and wellbeing events designed to help them live well after cancer. 

In Kent and Medway, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust is one of just three sites in the country rolling out the NHS 111 straight‑to‑test initiative, enabling women with “red flag” breast cancer symptoms to directly book appointments for a suitable clinic through NHS 111 online or the NHS App, bypassing the need to first see a GP.