UCARE (Urological Cancer Research and Education) was the idea of a group of urology and oncology doctors, nurses, patients and supporters at the Churchill Hospital, Oxford, who felt that research into urological cancer was under-funded.

The seriousness of such urological cancers as kidney, bladder, prostate and testicular has not reached public awareness in the same way as some other cancers, and key to successful treatment is early diagnosis. There are 54,000 new cases of urological cancer each year – 10,000 more than breast cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most common, with 35,000 cases diagnosed a year. Within the Thames Valley and Northamptonshire regions alone, there are 800 deaths a year from urology-related cancers.

UCARE was established as a registered charity in 2007. The results of its work will not only improve outcomes for people with urological cancer locally, but have a major impact on cancer patients worldwide. Oxford has made significant contributions both nationally and internationally to research into urolological cancers.

Run from ‘borrowed’ office space at the Churchill Hospital – the charity is supported by one paid member of staff, who manages the charity’s day-to-day running; nine trustees; and a number of volunteer supporters.

UCARE depends greatly on the help of volunteers, and maintains a close relationship with the Friends of Renal Oncology Group [FROG]. FROG is proving to be a valued local support group for kidney (renal) cancer patients, families, and carers. The meetings are informal, providing the perfect opportunity to meet, chat and share information with other patients and supporters.

Cilla Slipper is one of the many UCARE supporters who donated auction and raffle prizes, helping to raise over £20,000. She said: “The doctors and researchers are working so hard on our behalf, and without their knowledge, dedication and care, I simply would not be here. I support UCARE because there is a need to find new ways to treat urological cancers in order to give patients a lifeline.

“So much work is done in isolation, but with UCARE there is the opportunity for all professionals concerned to work together.”

Clive Stone, UCARE community volunteer, said: “I offered to help UCARE after my own operation for kidney cancer. I was impressed that local doctors, nurses and patients were raising funds, and I wanted to get involved myself.”

Businesses can make a real difference too, and UCARE offers informal presentations in the workplace, or provides information for a work intranet on how to spot the warning signs and symptoms of the four main urological cancers. They hope that this approach to a subject that is often met with fear and embarrassment will succeed. Without recognising the signs and symptoms, around 18,000 people could die of urological cancers in the UK every year, as it may be too late by the time they approach a doctor. If you would like to know more about volunteering or sponsoring UCARE, visit: www.ucare-oxford.org.uk

  • If you wish to contribute to this column, email Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action at voluntaryvoice@ocva.org.uk