We are The Christie magazine Oct 2025

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Introducing MyChristie

Our new patient portal gives patients easier access to their information.

christie.nhs.uk EDITION 4 We are The Christie

AUTUMN 2025

Welcome

A word from the executive editor

Hello and welcome to the autumn edition of We Are The Christie. This magazine is all about the people who make our Trust what it is. Inside you’ll find stories from patients, families, colleagues and volunteers that show the difference care and compassion can make.

I’d like to use this opportunity to tell you a little about Future Christie, our 10-year programme to improve how we deliver care. The aim is simple: to make life easier for patients and staff by

Looking ahead, we’re exploring how artificial intelligence could assist with things like radiotherapy planning or consultation transcriptions, developing a new electronic patient record to join up care across the hospital, and using data more effectively to improve services. Future Christie is not about changing what makes The Christie special. It’s about building on our strengths so that we can continue to deliver outstanding cancer care for many years to come. Thank you for reading and for being part of our community.

introducing better technology, more joined-up services and new ways of working. You’ll read in this issue about MyChristie (pages 4-5), our new patient portal,

which is already giving patients easier access to information

about their care.

Tom Thornber Director of Future Christie

Contents

2 3

14 15

Introduction News in brief Feature story Martha’s Rule Staff stories Patient stories

You Made A Difference Awards

Around the Trust

4-5

Under the microscope - Smoking cessation service Innovative recruitment

16 17 18 19

6 7

Developments at The Christie

Puzzle section Charity corner

8-9

10-13

We’d love to hear your thoughts about this new magazine. Please send any feedback or ideas to the-christie.internalcomms@nhs.net You can also get in touch by post at: WATC Editor, The Christie, 2-4 Candleford Road, Withington, Manchester, M20 3JH 2

News in brief

Record number of treatments delivered For the first time in our 125-year history, The Christie has delivered more than 100,000 chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments in a single year. Between April 2024 and March 2025, staff provided 105,827 treatments to over 14,000 patients. Gemma Jones, Lead Nurse for Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy, said: “Despite these record numbers, our colleagues still aim to provide the highest standards of compassion and care for the people they treat.” Patient Suzanne Lackin, who received the milestone 100,000th treatment, added: “I have never been treated as a number. I feel so lucky and grateful to have this incredible place on my doorstep.”

News in brief

Future Christie: shaping the next 10 years The Christie has launched Future Christie, a 10-year programme to make care more personal, efficient and joined-up while keeping the same compassionate touch we’re known for. One of the first changes is MyChristie, our new patient portal, which is now live and giving patients easier access to appointments and information. Future developments include linking the portal with the NHS App, new digital tools to help patients share how they’re feeling between treatments and using artificial intelligence for smarter radiotherapy planning and meeting recordings. Work has also begun on a new electronic patient record system to give staff the full picture of each patient’s care.

Pioneering advanced nursing practitioner Karen retires

After more than 30 years at The Christie, Advanced Practitioner Karen Johnson retired on 10 October 2025. Joining as a ward nurse in 1991 and going on to become The Christie’s first advanced practitioner, she's shaped modern oncology nursing, blending clinical excellence with innovation in service development to deliver outstanding patient-centred care. She is often the first clinician a patient will meet at The Christie and can remain their point of contact throughout treatment and follow-up. Today, because of Karen’s pioneering journey, The Christie has 75 qualified advanced practitioners and 26 in training, supporting almost all clinical areas. The advanced practitioner career pathway is now open to all health professionals, not just nurses. Strong results in latest national inpatient survey The latest Care Quality Commission inpatient survey shows that patients continue to rate their experience at The Christie among the best in the country. Patients gave an overall experience score of 9.2 out of 10, placing The Christie third nationally. We were also one of just eight trusts recognised as an outlier

Re-accreditation as a comprehensive cancer centre The Christie has been re-accredited by the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI), once again being recognised as a comprehensive cancer centre. The OECI is a network of Europe’s top cancer centres, focused on improving care, research and education. Following a peer review earlier this year, the OECI highlighted The Christie as a leading example for both patient care and research, noting significant progress since the last review. Our Christie Institute of Cancer Education was also praised for its extensive training programmes reaching healthcare professionals across the UK. The report highlighted our motivated staff, patient centred care, and the impact of our research. This re-accreditation reaffirms the Trust’s role as a leader in integrated cancer care and innovation.

Pictured: Rikki Goddard-Fuller, Director of Christie Education Vicky Sharples, Chief Nurse and Executive Director of Quality Neil Bayman, Medical Director Fiona Blackhall, Director of Research and Innovation

for having a high number of scores rated ‘much better than expected’. Patients scored us highly for dignity and respect (9.7), cleanliness (9.6), confidence in doctors (9.7) and privacy (9.9).

If you’d like to read more about these stories, please visit: christie.nhs.uk/news

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Feature story

MyChristie: our new patient portal We recently launched MyChristie, a secure online portal that gives patients quick and easy access to important information about their care – anytime, anywhere, on any device.

With MyChristie, patients can check upcoming appointments, view clinical letters and update their care team using a simple online health questionnaire on their side effects. The launch is part of Future Christie, our 10-year transformation programme designed to make care more personal, joined-up and efficient, while keeping the same compassionate touch that The Christie is known for. Tom Thornber, Director of Future Christie, said: “MyChristie is about giving patients more control and making care easier to navigate. It’s a positive step that will help people feel informed about their treatment. There’s more to come.” More than 1,000 patients signed up during launch week, including Paul Mills (pictured), 55, from Warrington, who was supported by Oladipo Oni (also pictured), one of our digital trainers. Paul said: “I think MyChristie is really useful and it’s important that everyone knows more about it. It can be easy to lose focus when you’re a patient, so having someone to show you how to use the portal is really very helpful. I’ve completed my questionnaire already and I know it will be helpful going forward to keep appointments and my health history in one place.” Oladipo added: “Patients will sometimes miss letters, so it’s helpful to have practical updates and appointments in one place. People told me it was good to be able to add dates to their personal calendars.”

I think MyChristie is really useful and it’s important that everyone knows more about it. I know it will be helpful going forward to keep appointments and my health history in one place. Paul Mills

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MyChristie is about giving patients more control and making care easier to navigate. It’s a positive step that will help people feel informed about their treatment. There’s more to come.

Tom Thornber, Director of Future Christie

Sign up in three easy steps

1. Go to christie.nhs.uk/mychristie 2. To register, you’ll need your name, date of birth, postcode, email and mobile number. Please make sure these details are up to date with your care team. 3. Once registered, you can log in securely with a password and a code sent to your email or phone. Future Christie is about making life easier for patients and staff by reducing delays, improving communication and giving patients more control. MyChristie is the first step in this journey. Why sign up? • A ccess your health information on your smartphone, tablet or computer • G et instant updates on booked appointments and clinical letters following appointments • T ell your care team about your symptoms and how you're feeling using online questionnaires Find out more and sign up at christie.nhs.uk/mychristie

Pat Buckenham, receptionist, explains MyChristie at the Oak Road help desk

This is just the start. MyChristie is in its first phase, with more features planned in the months ahead. These include access to blood results, CT and MRI appointments, and integration with the NHS App. The launch has been supported by digital trainers in outpatient areas, along with help desks and information leaflets to guide patients through the sign-up process. Patients also receive invitations to sign up to the portal via text message.

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Developments at The Christie

To make the most of huge improvements in technology in recent years and an increasing demand in activity, we now need to improve both our current pathology and scanning facilities, many of which were built in the 1980s or even earlier, and will not support future demand and technological advances. We will therefore soon be starting an ambitious programme to construct two new buildings on Wilmslow Road to make this happen. These impressive new facilities will replace some of the oldest parts of our hospital as well as the temporary structures we have been using in recent years. The first to be built will be our new Christie Pathology Partnership Building, which subject to planning permission, is aiming for completion early 2027. The Christie Charity is funding this project. The construction will be managed by Northern Pathology Developments Limited which is the wholly owned subsidiary of The Christie Charity. This allows The Charity to continue its vital support of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, providing funding for enhanced treatment and care beyond what the NHS funds. This will then enable us to demolish part of the hospital and begin work to build The Christie Scanning Centre which will open in 2029. These new facilities will be a major step forward in the care we can provide, allowing us all to benefit from the latest technologies as they are developed, helping us diagnose and treat a patient’s cancer as accurately and efficiently as possible. These two projects are among the most ambitious we’ve ever embarked on at The Christie but will inevitably mean a period of significant disruption for our patients, staff and neighbours. There will be a complex series of departmental moves within the hospital site, which are being carefully planned to ensure clinical services are at the heart of the hospital and meet the needs of our patients and staff who deliver them. As ever with our building projects, we will do our utmost to keep this disruption to a minimum and keep those affected informed and involved every step of the way. At a time when the NHS is under significant financial pressures, we are very fortunate to have the support of The Christie Charity which will be launching a significant fundraising appeal to part fund this project. We thank all our staff, patients and neighbours for their patience and support during this ambitious project for The Christie which will future proof many of the services we are able to provide, in turn helping us give our patients the very best and latest care.

Building to see cancer more clearly In order to be

able to diagnose and treat cancer effectively, it is vital our experts at The Christie

have access to the latest scanning and pathology facilities, so they can see the full impact of a patient’s disease and plan how best it can be treated.

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Martha’s Rule

Martha’s Rule The Christie has recently introduced Martha’s Rule, a new patient safety initiative that gives patients and families a clear way to raise urgent concerns if they feel someone’s condition is getting worse while staying on one of our inpatient wards.

“We already have good systems in place for escalating concerns. Martha’s Rule is that extra layer. It gives patients and families more reassurance that their voices will always be heard.”

Gabi Cohen, Martha’s Rule project manager

The initiative is being rolled out across the NHS, and The Christie was among the first hospitals to pilot it. Martha’s Rule is named after 13-year-old Martha Mills, whose sepsis symptoms were not recognised by medical staff in time to save her life in 2023. Her parents, Merope Mills and Paul Laity, have since campaigned for these important changes in the NHS. The aim is simple – to make sure health concerns are acted on quickly, and that patients and families always feel listened to. We caught up with oncology nurse and Martha’s Rule project manager Gabi Cohen, who led on the implementation at The Christie. Gabi said: “Martha’s Rule is about making sure concerns are acted on quickly. It’s a simple way for patients or relatives to raise a concern if they feel it hasn’t been fully picked up on the ward.” She explained that the process is designed to build on existing communication – “if you’re staying in hospital and you feel your health, or the health of your relative, is getting worse, you should first speak to your ward team and your consultant’s team. If you still don’t feel your concerns are being acted on, you can raise a Martha’s Rule call by phoning switchboard. This will allow our specialist team to review the patient promptly.” The Christie was chosen as one of the first pilot sites because of its strong 24-hour critical care outreach team. “We have a really well-established outreach team here, and that’s what made us eligible to be part of the national pilot. We’ve also had support from colleagues across Greater Manchester to share ideas and make sure we’re introducing it in the best way for our patients,” Gabi said. She added that the initiative should be seen as an added safeguard: “We already have good systems in place for escalating concerns. Martha’s Rule

For Gabi, leading the work has been a rewarding experience. “I’ve really enjoyed it because it’s allowed me to work with teams across the hospital that I might not normally link up with. Most of all, it feels positive to know this could make a real difference to inpatients and their families.” Martha’s Rule is now live at The Christie and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Patients and families who need to use it can ask the ward for details or call switchboard directly on 0161 446 3000. All the information about Martha’s Rule here at The Christie is available online at: Martha’s Rule: detecting deterioration

is that extra layer. It gives patients and families more reassurance that their voices will always be heard.”

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Staff stories

Tom Spencer Tom Spencer worked as a porter at The Christie for nearly three years before moving into his current role as a waste minimisation officer last year.

Staff stories Each and every person who works at The Christie performs a valuable role which directly links to patient care. Whether it is a nurse delivering chemotherapy or an IT engineer keeping our computer systems running, there is a huge variety of roles that come together to make The Christie special.

He oversees all the waste across the Trust – from clinical waste to things like furniture – to make sure we’re being as sustainable as possible Tom used to work in IT but was made redundant during COVID-19. He applied for a portering job at The Christie and hasn’t looked back since. “Getting to know patients was the thing I loved about being a porter. After a while, you looked at the list and

started to recognise people’s names on there. I enjoyed chatting to them. I got to know one woman particularly well – she even said that I was her

“I started learning about the waste side of things early

on, so this role seemed like a

natural fit. We are a zero-landfill site, ensuring that we reuse and recycle as much as possible. My managers and colleagues have been supportive of my development, which is great." Tom Spencer

personal porter. That still makes me smile even now,” he says.

All our staff go to tremendous lengths to help each and every one of our patients and, together:

Oladipo Oni

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Oladipo Oni Oladipo Oni is a digital trainer at The Christie. He joined the Trust in May 2024 and is part of the team helping colleagues build confidence with digital tools.

Chris Stones Chris Stones is a busy man. He's improving our radiotherapy service, and is a mental health first aider, diversity champion, and lead of our staff lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) network.

Oladipo’s journey into digital skills began far from Manchester, at a bootcamp in Nigeria where he was part of a community non-profit organisation that trained more than 3,000 young people in

“I always wanted to work in radiotherapy,” he says. “I visited The Christie at 16, met some of the radiographers, and that was it for me. I started as a treatment radiographer in Leeds and worked in planning there before making the move to The Christie.” Chris had just come back from adoption leave for his second child when his husband found him the service improvement role that he’s in today.

essential digital tools. “Seeing how technology could empower people to take charge of their futures inspired me, and I have not looked back since,” he said. At The Christie, Oladipo supports staff through group training and one-to-one sessions that focus on how best to use our clinical and non-clinical systems. By helping colleagues get the most out of the technology they use every day, the digital training team make sure staff can work efficiently and safely, ultimately benefiting patient care.

“For me, digital training is not just about teaching tools. It is about giving people the confidence to use them to make a difference.” Oladipo Oni

“It’s perfect. I’m involved in improving all aspects of radiotherapy, and I get to spend time with the radiographers who are delivering treatment, which is great. Everyone I work with is fantastic and supportive." One of Chris’s proudest moments has been setting up the mental health first aider programme at The Christie.

“My number one aim with everything I do is to make sure that my colleagues can flourish and provide the best care for our patients.” Chris Stones

Oladipo runs regular sessions on Microsoft 365 and other platforms, answering questions and tailoring support to specific needs. Oladipo was also one of the digital trainers who supported patients during the launch of MyChristie, helping people sign up to the portal and access their information securely. What drives him most is seeing people grow in confidence. “It is amazing to see someone go from hesitant to self-assured, applying digital skills that make their work easier and taking on new responsibilities that support their career development,” he said. “Every time I see that transformation, it reminds me why I love what I do.”

“There are 65 of us now, which is great. We provide initial support and guidance to colleagues and can signpost them to where they can get more support if they need it.” “Cancer affects everyone, so visibility within different communities is important. We took part in the Manchester Pride parade and so many people came up to us to share what The Christie means to them, it meant the world to us.”

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Patient stories

Ann Lally Ann Lally, a 69-year-old former

childminder from Stockport, is doing well and has recently welcomed her first grandchild – a boy called Arthur – a year after being told she could only have 6 to 12 months to live following a diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer that had spread to her lungs and liver. Ann, who has two grown-up children – Becky (40) and Michael (39 and Arthur’s dad) – had six months of fortnightly chemotherapy, which she finished in February this year. She now returns to The Christie every three months for a check-up. Her tumours have shrunk by 42% since she started treatment and her latest scan shows they are still stable. Ann’s diagnosis in June 2024 came just three months after her husband Mike, whom she had been with since she was 16, died from a heart attack. He had also been diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in 2023 but was unable to receive treatment because of a lung condition. “I didn’t have any symptoms other than a tummy ache, so to be told that I not only had cancer, but the same type as my husband was both shocking and devastating. My kids came with me to my first appointment, where they heard that I might only have six months to live. They’d just lost their dad, and now they were faced with losing me as well; it was almost unbearable. “Becky and Michael kept me going. I wanted to keep things as normal as possible for them after all they’d been through. I decided right at the beginning that I was going to be positive, carry on as normal, and enjoy my life, and that is what I have been doing ever since.” A few weeks into treatment, Michael told Ann he and his wife were expecting their first child. “I love being a nana. My son and daughter-in-law also live in Stockport, so I am looking forward to being involved in Arthur’s life for as long as possible. I can’t put how I feel into words. I’ve been given this extra time and I’m treasuring every single second of it.”

"I decided right at the beginning that I was going to be positive, carry on as normal, and enjoy my life, and that is what I have been doing ever since."

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Jo Kelly Former Christie patient Jo Kelly is celebrating an impressive medal haul, with two golds and a silver won at the World Transplant Games in Dresden this summer.

In 2012 Jo Kelly faced the most difficult period of her life. Diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma, she needed a stem cell transplant to survive. That procedure, carried out at The Christie, gave her a vital second chance in life and a gold medal-winning opportunity 13 years later.

Along the way, she has raised more than £12,000 for charity through endurance cycling and has become a passionate advocate for stem cell donation, regularly speaking for Anthony Nolan. The triathlon relay gold was the highlight of the Dresden games. Alongside fellow British athletes Claire Butler and Lindsey Blackburn, Jo raced to victory, demonstrating not only athletic excellence but also the powerful bond formed between three women whose lives were saved by stem cell transplants. “When we crossed the line together, I felt so proud. It wasn’t just about the medal, it was about what we represent.” Jo’s consultant at The Christie, Professor Adrian Bloor, commented: “I’m thrilled for Jo and her success at the games. What she has achieved is truly inspirational. “I am proud that through stem cell transplantation, we’ve been able to give Jo this fantastic opportunity in life. Her journey from patient to world champion shows the extraordinary things that can happen following a successful stem cell transplant and through determination to succeed.” For Jo, every medal is a reminder of what transplantation makes possible.

"It’s beyond what I ever imagined. Becoming world champion feels amazing, but none of this would have been possible without the transplant and the team at The Christie. They gave me my life back."

Jo, now a 40-year-old data engineer and mum of two from Solihull, is thrilled with her extraordinary results. As well as claiming world champion status in the cycling time trial, she struck gold in the triathlon relay and secured silver in the road race at the World Transplant Games. The Games also brought an emotional personal moment. During the opening ceremony, Jo reunited with her stem cell donor, Stefan Berens from Germany. The two first met in 2019, years after Stefan’s

donation had saved her life. Meeting again in his home country was profoundly moving for Jo. “To have Stefan there, cheering me on, was unforgettable,” she says. Jo’s sporting journey began as part of her recovery. What started as a way to rebuild her strength and fitness has grown into an international career as one of Britain’s most successful transplant athletes.

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Patient stories

Zara McCormick Zara McCormick, a 36-year-old mum and project manager, is celebrating two years of being free from bowel cancer after taking part in a clinical trial at The Christie.

Zara, who's married to Paul and mum to Lewis, was diagnosed the same week as Lewis’s first birthday. She had initially put her symptoms, anaemia, down to pregnancy. However, when they continued after Lewis was born, she was referred for tests at her local hospital and diagnosed with stage 3c bowel cancer with an MSI-H mutation. Because this type of cancer is very responsive to immunotherapy, she was referred to The Christie to discuss going on immunotherapy as part of the NEOPRISM trial.

Zara is now keen to spread the word about the importance of clinical trials: “One of the reasons I wanted to share my story is to change the perception that clinical trials are a last resort. For me, this was the first treatment I had, and I’m so glad I said yes. I would encourage other people with cancer to be open-minded about taking part. New treatments wouldn’t be possible without trials, so you’re also helping make things better for other people in the future. There’s something very special about that.” Professor Mark Saunders, Zara’s consultant oncologist at The Christie, said: “It’s brilliant to see that Zara and all the other patients have responded so well to immunotherapy. More trials need to be done to validate the findings, but the results we’ve seen so far are really encouraging. Pembrolizumab is a very effective drug and has the potential to change the lives of a few thousand people diagnosed with this type of bowel cancer in the UK every year. Any patients interested in taking part in clinical trials should discuss this option with their consultant or GP. Not all patients will fit the criteria for a specific trial.”

One of the reasons I wanted to share my story is to change the perception that clinical trials are a last resort. For me, this was the first treatment I had, and I’m so glad I said yes.

She started three cycles of immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab in June 2023. A scan showed that the tumours in her bowel and lymph nodes had shrunk significantly, and she went on to have surgery in September to remove part of her bowel. The biopsy result showed there were no active cancer cells, only scar tissue, so she had a complete response to treatment.”

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When 20-year-old Mercy Osarekhoe noticed a lump on her neck in 2024, she never imagined it would lead to a life-changing diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma. Having moved from Madrid to Manchester to study accounting and finance at Manchester Metropolitan University, Mercy faced a sudden disruption as her health took priority.

She began chemotherapy at The Christie shortly before Christmas 2024, followed by a course of radiotherapy in spring 2025. She was cared for by specialist staff in The Christie’s teenage and young adult unit, who took time to explain things and offered reassurance. Because her family live in Spain, Mercy was grateful that her mum was able to fly over for each round of chemotherapy.

Mercy Osarekhoe Now, having experienced sailing, friendship, laughter, and the joy of feeling like herself again, Mercy wants to encourage others in a similar situation to take part if the opportunity arises. “Everyone’s in the same boat, literally. You make friends quickly." Three boats set sail from Largs Marina near Glasgow. Mercy was on one of the boats with four other young people, accompanied by three crew, spending three nights aboard.Reflecting on her first time on a boat. “I learned how to sail, met amazing people, and felt like I could just be myself again, without everything being about illness or treatment.” Initially nervous, especially as she’s not a confident swimmer and had fears about being at sea, Mercy reflects: “I’m delighted I did it. It gave me a sense of achievement and made me feel more confident again. The sailing trip offered something I hadn’t realised I needed, a space to feel normal again. It was refreshing to be around people my age who’d been through something similar. We didn’t need to explain ourselves; everyone just got it.”

Now recovering, Mercy is awaiting follow-up scans to confirm whether the cancer is gone and has been doing university exams over the summer to catch up, while working part-time. During July, Mercy joined a sailing trip in Scotland, organised by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, a charity offering young people aged 8 to 24

I think cancer makes you appreciate everything more. Just the fact that I could go on the trip felt like something to be thankful for.

the chance to rediscover independence, confidence, and a brighter future through outdoor adventures

and sailing. She was one of three patients from

The Christie on the trip.

Do you have a story to share? We’d love to hear from you, please get in touch at the-christie.press.office@nhs.net

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You Made a Difference Awards

You Made a Difference Awards

At The Christie, we’re proud to celebrate the incredible contributions of our staff and volunteers through our You Made a Difference Awards. Here are our recent winners.

Jacqueline Mellody, Clinical Research Nurse, was praised for her dedication to research and patient support, as well as her role in establishing the melanoma support group. She's been at The Christie since 2009, working across ward 11, the clinical research facility and the melanoma team. Her colleague, Glenda Laviste, said: “Jacqui has been pivotal in establishing the melanoma support group and she provides excellent care in every aspect of her role.” A patient’s relative, Kirsty Woolstencroft, said: “Jacqui has provided that constant which is so important and needed when patients are on this journey.

Guy Macfarlane, Anaesthetic and Recovery Theatre Practitioner, was recognised by colleagues and patients for his calm, reassuring approach. After completing his Operating Department Practitioner degree, he joined The Christie and now works across main theatres, the brachytherapy theatre and the proton beam therapy unit. Theatre sister and manager Maree Rowen said: “Guy is excellent with patients, supporting them as they go to sleep and reassuring them when they wake in recovery. He is totally committed to excellent patient care.” Patient Nicola Said added: “The kindness and compassion Guy showed was above and beyond anything I have experienced. He made a lifelong impact at the worst possible time in my life.”

Susan Corr, Domestic Assistant was recognised for the pride she takes in her work and the positive impact she has on colleagues and patients. She's worked at The Christie for nine years on ward 10 as a domestic assistant, also supporting as a bank admin assistant. Gaynor Herbert-Cronin, Deputy Support Services Manager, said: “Susan’s professionalism and the pride she takes in her work make a real difference to our patients and teams.”

Congratulations to all our winners for their exceptional work and the positive impact they continue to have on The Christie community. Please visit christie.nhs.uk/ymad for more details and nominations.

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Around the Trust

Around the Trust

Driving towards greener cancer care The Christie at Home service has introduced a fully electric fleet of 7 MG4 cars for nurses delivering cancer treatments in patients’ homes. The vehicles replace petrol-powered models and cover more than 85,000 miles a year. Sarah Richardson, nurse (pictured), said: “The new electric cars are quiet, comfortable and reliable, they suit our work perfectly. Most importantly, they show our patients and the community that we care about their health and the environment they live in.” The electric cars will save over 14 tonnes of CO² per year and over £20,000 annually on vehicle costs, helping to support the NHS net-zero ambition. Last year alone, our team of 16 dedicated nurses carried out over 8,544 home-based treatments.

Bloods Closer to Home service in Wigan reaches key milestone The Christie’s Bloods Closer to Home service brings routine blood testing closer to where patients live. Wigan’s Thomas Linacre Centre is the latest centre to join the network, in early 2025. In late summer, it had reached a key milestone, having completed over 1,000 blood tests for patients. It's one of 12 centres across Greater Manchester and Cheshire providing the Bloods Closer to Home service. The network aims to make it easier for patients to get the blood tests they need to continue their treatments safely. Having services close to home reduces travel costs, saves patients’ time, and cuts carbon dioxide emissions. Joanne Roberts, Lead Nurse for Outpatient and Phlebotomy Services, says: “By bringing essential services like blood testing closer to home, we aim to reduce the burden on patients during what is already a challenging time.” Blood samples can be taken intravenously, or the staff can access patient ports and lines. These are then sent back to The Christie for testing. Donations to The Christie Charity fund the service.

New national uniforms introduced The Christie has introduced the NHS national healthcare uniform. The colours and designs were agreed nationally by NHS England, NHS Supply Chain and professional healthcare bodies. The uniform makes it easier for patients, visitors and colleagues to recognise different roles. Made from robust, sustainable materials, the design reduces waste and can save the NHS up to 30% on ordering costs. Narinder Saini, Deputy Chief Nurse, said: “These uniforms are about making things as clear as possible for our patients and their families. Reassuring people about who is caring for them, while also giving staff a sense of unity as part of one NHS team.” For information on the different uniforms, see the 'Visiting The Christie' pages of our website. Standing together for Pride Staff from our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) network organised a party in the hospital garden to celebrate Pride Month. The party followed a series of activities, including LGBT+ staff and allies sharing blog posts about

Tom represents The Christie on the TEDxNHS stage Tom Reading, Clinical Lead Physiotherapist in Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Care, represented The Christie at TEDxNHS 2025 in London on Saturday 27 September. Tom’s talk, “Physiotherapy Saves Futures – Make Movement Standard in Cancer Care”, highlighted why physiotherapy should be embedded as a standard part of oncology and palliative care, not as an optional extra. Reflecting on the experience, Tom said: “It was humbling, inspiring and thought-provoking. Preparing for the talk gave me the chance to reflect not only on my own practice, but also on the wider value of physiotherapy in oncology and palliative care, particularly for teenagers and young adults.” TEDxNHS gave Tom a national platform to share this message and showcase the resilience of young people living with cancer. His talk is available to watch on the TEDxNHS 2025 livestream.

what Pride means to them. Staff also took part in the Manchester Pride parade, alongside other NHS trusts across the region. We're proud to be a hospital with a diverse workforce supporting a diverse community.

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Under the microscope

Smoking cessation service

We spoke to Charlotte Finchett, Health Improvement Manager about how The Christie’s smoking cessation and alcohol advice service is helping patients, carers and staff make positive changes.

(located on a specialist inpatient unit) for patients needing inpatient alcohol detox – the first time this has been integrated into a cancer care setting. Q: Why is it important to combine NRT with behavioural support? A: Research shows that using NRT alongside behavioural support significantly increases the chances of quitting successfully. By offering immediate access to both during outpatient appointments, we give patients the best chance to take control of their health and treatment outcomes. Q: Do you have a recent success story you can share? A: One patient was struggling with their smoking before treatment started. Getting support from us quickly meant they could go ahead with the surgery that saved their life. Stories like this show how prompt support can make a real difference to a patient’s journey and outcomes. Q: What added support is available? A: We work closely with the Chapman Barker Unit in Prestwich, a 36-bed inpatient detox centre specialising in complex alcohol and drug dependency. This ensures a seamless transition from detox to recovery. Thanks to colleagues in pharmacy, NRT can also be offered during outpatient and pre-operative clinics, inspiring other clinics to adopt similar approaches. Looking ahead, research is under way to evaluate the impact of this initiative, with feedback from staff and patients. Q: What do you find most rewarding about your role? A: Helping people feel empowered to make positive changes during such a challenging time is incredibly rewarding. Seeing their health improve and hearing them talk about how their lives have changed in ways they never imagined is what makes this work so meaningful. I love helping people change when they think it’s impossible. Being an ex-smoker myself, I’m addicted to my job now. How to access the service The team is based in the Oak Road area of The Christie (department 3), next to the wig room. You can self-refer, or a clinician can refer you. For more information, or to speak directly to a health advisor, call 0161 956 1215, 07392 278408 or 07483 278408 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm).

Q: Can you tell us briefly what the smoking cessation and alcohol advice service offers? A: We provide specialist support for patients, carers and staff to stop smoking or reduce their alcohol intake. Our focus is on building resilience, reducing anxiety and promoting healthier lifestyle choices, especially during and after cancer treatment. The aim is to improve clinical outcomes while prioritising patient safety, experience and long-term recovery. Q: Why is it important for patients to stop smoking or reduce alcohol during cancer treatment? A: There are significant benefits. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol can improve wound healing, reduce the risk of infections, enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and lessen side effects like nausea. It also leads to better recovery and survival outcomes. Continuing to smoke or misuse alcohol can delay surgery, affect consent for your procedure or operation, and reduce the effectiveness of anaesthetics. Q: How can someone access the service? A: Our service is open to everyone – patients, carers and staff. Cancer affects more than just the person diagnosed, so we offer support to all who need it. Patients can self-refer, or clinical staff can refer via the intranet or internet under “smoking cessation” or by selecting alcohol or drug support. Staff are also welcome to use the service. Q: Have there been any recent developments or changes in the service? A: Yes. We’ve streamlined the process so nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can now be provided directly in outpatient clinics, removing postal delays and giving timely support for patients preparing for treatment. We’ve also rolled out added staff training to boost confidence in providing NRT during appointments. Commissioners have also funded seven RADAR beds

"I love helping people change when they think it’s impossible."

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Innovative recruitment

A new face in a new role

Patients and staff may have already spotted a new member of the complementary health and wellbeing team at The Christie.

Anthony Preston, 48, from Stockport, has taken on a unique new role, not only a first for The Christie, but believed to be the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Anthony is the first ever trainee integrative therapist to be employed at The Christie. Over the next 12 months, he’ll be learning and delivering a range of therapies that support patients alongside their clinical treatment. These include reflexology, aromatherapy, massage, hypnotherapy, acupuncture, therapeutic touch, and creative visualisation. The therapies can be particularly beneficial for patients experiencing anxiety, pain, needle phobias, claustrophobia, or stress linked to treatment. “Seeing patients at their lowest point and being able to offer comfort is rewarding. To help a patient relax and take away some pain or anxiety is a privilege.” Anthony's journey began with an interest in health and sport. "I'm a keen runner and cyclist. I did a massage diploma a few years ago but never imagined it would lead to this." He also brings extensive NHS experience from various clinical settings.

“It was evident Anthony had lots of transferable skills. His passion really came across,” said Eileen Hackman, Clinical Lead for Integrative Therapy and Anthony’s manager. “The feedback so far has been very positive.” The post was created to address reduced entry routes into the profession. Fewer colleges now offer complementary therapy training, leaving many applicants without oncology experience for hospital roles. At the same time, new NHS rules limit volunteers’ access to patient records, restricting their ability to assess and document treatments safely. Eileen led the trainee model project. “Working with oncology patients requires specialist knowledge,” she says. “We needed a way to bring new people into the team and ensure the future of this important service.” Anthony hopes the role will develop and open the door for others. “I feel privileged to be the first of hopefully many coming into the role,” he said.

Eileen shares that hope. “Having therapists who can quickly apply what they’re learning helps ensure patients receive safe, effective care,” she said. “The trainee therapist project is

Anthony describes his first months in the role as inspiring. “The team has been fantastic and welcoming. It’s a friendly place to work, and you can see how committed staff are to supporting patients and their families.”

something I’ve dreamed of for some time. It’s amazing to see it come to fruition.”

Interest in the post was high. Over 50 people applied, with 16 shortlisted for a special recruitment event where applicants gave presentations and spent time with the integrative therapy team.

"Having therapists who can apply what they’re learning straight away helps ensure patients receive safe, effective care."

Eileen Hackman

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Enjoy completing these puzzles just for fun, or to pass the time. If you submit your answers, you might be in with a chance of winning a prize. ? Fancy yourself a puzzle master? To qualify for the draw and a chance to win a Christie Charity bundle, please send a picture of your puzzle page to the-christie.internalcomms@nhs.net Alternatively, cut out your completed puzzle section and post it to WATC editor, The Christie, 2-4 Candleford Road, Withington, Manchester M20 3JH. Entries close on Friday 19 December 2025. Answers available on The Christie website when entries close

Puzzles

Christie crossword Across 2. Humdrum (3,2,3,4)

4. Comes from trees and dogs (4) 6. Protection for the patella (4,3) 8. Manchester Town Hall architecture (3-6) 13. Herb/a street in France (3) 14. Greek goddess of wisdom (6)

15. Non-tabloid paper (10) 16. Big Ben's tower (9,5) 18. Guitar string clamp (4) 19. Geometric crisps (7) Down 1. 3. An alliance (9) 4. Type of vinegar (8) 5. Journalist (8) 7.

Halloween tradition (5,2,5)

Add more details (5,3) 9. Prejudice, partiality (4) 10. Medicine tablet/shape (7) 11. River running through Manchester (6) 12. Device like an iPad (6) 17. Old-fashioned (7) Christie quiz 1. The Christie was the first hospital in the UK to treat patients with which technology in 2018? A) Proton beam therapy B) CyberKnife radiotherapy C) PET-CT scanning 2. What is the tallest building in the world (as of 2025)? A) Deansgate Square South Tower B) Merdeka 118 Tower C) Burj Khalifa

Sudoku

3. Which of these Greater Manchester landmarks was designed by Alfred Waterhouse, the same architect as Manchester Town Hall? A) John Rylands Library B) Strangeways Prison C) Victoria Baths 4. Which blood group is known as the ‘universal donor’? A) O negative B) AB positive C) B negative 5. What is the national flower of Wales? A) Daffodil B) Bluebell C) Thistle 6. How many medical students did we welcome through our education department last year (2024)? A) 314 B) 562 C) 206 7. Which novel holds the record as the world’s best-selling book by a single author (excluding religious texts)? A) Don Quixote B) The Lord of the Rings C) A Tale of Two Cities

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Charity corner

Together we can change the way we see cancer Help us bring a life-changing Total Body PET-CT scanner to The Christie.

If it wasn’t for the wonderful, compassionate, dedicated staff at The Christie – the amazing researchers, the drugs, the surgeons – I might not be here today.

John McGartland

Right now, the nearest Total Body PET-CT scanners are in London and Edinburgh, over 200 miles away. The Christie Charity has pledged £7m towards the cost to bring one to Manchester. The Total Body PET-CT scanner would help researchers understand how cancer in one organ has an impact across the body. They could then share their findings nationally to develop kinder treatments and improve treatment outcomes for patients like John McGartland. John was diagnosed with cancer in his oesophagus, stomach, adrenal gland and lymph nodes in 2019. He’s now in remission but returns to The Christie every four months to have a scan. He says: “If it wasn’t for the wonderful, compassionate, dedicated staff at The Christie – the amazing researchers, the drugs, the surgeons – I might not be here today. The advancements in treatments and technology are amazing but are only possible if resources are made available so that others like me are given hope and a chance to get their life back.” For more information about the appeal, visit our Withington or Macclesfield Charity centres, or go to: christies.org/totalbodypet

Scanning is one of the most important aspects of cancer treatment. It can mean the difference between life and death. Here at The Christie, we want to offer patients the most advanced scanning experience with the highest quality images. To do this we need to purchase one of the most innovative scanners in the world - a Total Body Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography scanner (Total Body PET-CT). This new scanner offers a range of benefits: • Can detect disease earlier • Scans the entire body quickly and in one go • Highest quality images in as little as five minutes – currently this can take up to half an hour • Faster and more precise and personalised treatment plans • Less exposure to radiation • Safer for pregnant women, babies and people with other vulnerabilities. • Allows us to see more patients • Gives researchers new insights into cancer and increases the number of scans for research at The Christie from 300 to at least 1,000 a year.

But we can’t provide this new technology without your help.

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At The Christie Charity we know the festive season can be bittersweet for those affected by cancer. That’s why with your support and generosity we can ensure patients have access to the very best care, treatment and research so they can spend this Christmas focusing on what truly matters: time with loved ones.

There are many ways you can make a difference this Christmas: • Gather family and friends to take on our fun-filled

• Send festive messages to family and friends with our range of Christmas cards, available online and in our charity centre at The Christie. • Take part in The Christie Charity Challenge and complete 6 different fundraising activities over the year to collect our exclusive jigsaw medal featuring our rainbow Christie embrace. Help make this Christmas brighter for our patients. For more details please visit christies.org/christmas or call 0161 446 3988

5k Festive Dash at Heaton Park on Sunday 23 November 2025, from 9.30am to 12 noon. • Join us for a magical evening of festive music at our Christmas concert in Manchester Cathedral on Wednesday 10 December 2025, from 7pm to 9.15pm. • Celebrate the life of a loved one by dedicating a beautiful pre-lit white rose with a personal message at our Garden of Hope in St John’s Garden, Manchester city centre, from Saturday 6 to Sunday 21 December 2025, 3pm to 8pm daily.