Pennine GP Alliance (PGPA) is delighted to announce that its Cancer Care Coordinator Innovation Project has won the “Most Impactful Innovation Project Award in Primary Care” at the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance Awards, recognising the significant impact of the programme across Calderdale.
The award celebrates the work of PGPA’s Cancer Care Coordinator model, led by Dr Eilidh Gunson, Primary Care Cancer & Palliative Care Improvement Lead, which has strengthened collaboration across the system, improved cancer pathways, and supported earlier detection and better outcomes for patients.
The award was announced at the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance conference and awards ceremony held at Elland Road Stadium, where colleagues Joanne Duffy, PGPA Head of Programmes, Ella Fairbrother, PGPA Project Manager, and Dr Gunson attended to represent PGPA.
The conference brought together partners from across the region to explore the future of cancer services and the implementation of the NHS Cancer Plan, with keynote sessions highlighting national priorities and how these can be translated into local action. The day also featured powerful lived experience contributions from Christine Talbot, former Calendar presenter and Chair of the event, and Cheryl Tackie from the NHSE Patient Partner Voice Forum, whose stories reinforced the importance of keeping patients at the centre of service design and delivery.
Reflecting on the event, Dr Eilidh Gunson said:
“It was great to be in that room full of people, partners and services, and to feel part of the collaboration of hug-givers! I came away feeling invigorated, inspired and reassured.” She added: “This achievement would not have been possible without the vision and support of Pennine GP Alliance, the commitment of our partner organisations, and the incredible efforts of all the staff delivering these services every day. Thank you for your trust, encouragement and collaboration.”
Joanne Duffy, Head of Programmes at PGPA, said:
“This award is a testament to the strength of partnership working across Calderdale and the dedication of Dr Gunson and the wider team. The Cancer Care Coordinator model has shown what is possible when we bring services together around patients, and we are incredibly proud of the impact it continues to deliver. This is innovation with real, measurable outcomes that is improving lives.”
PGPA also congratulated all organisations shortlisted for awards, with a special mention for Calderdale’s Staying Well team, who received recognition for Most Impactful Innovation in the VCSE Sector. A further highlight of the day was the live visual storytelling provided by Nifty Fox Creative, who captured key themes and discussions through real-time illustration as the conference unfolded.
The award recognises the impact of PGPA’s Cancer Care Coordinator model in improving coordination between primary care, secondary care, community services, and the voluntary sector. The project has helped improve communication, streamline referral pathways, and support earlier diagnosis while reducing inequalities in access to cancer screening and care.
With the Cancer Care Coordinator role now established as a permanent position, evolving into a Primary Care Cancer and Palliative Care Improvement Lead role, PGPA will continue to build on the progress achieved, strengthening partnership working and further improving outcomes for patients across Calderdale.
PGPA remains committed to developing innovative, collaborative approaches to cancer and palliative care, ensuring that the improvements delivered through this programme are sustained and further developed in the years ahead.
