What do we want to change?
Being a young adult and getting cancer means being in the middle of life: in studies, at work, in relationships, in the transition to independence. At the same time, healthcare and support systems are rarely designed for this particular life stage.
The result is that young adults risk falling through the cracks. Needs related to rehabilitation, mental health, finances, information, and participation often fall outside what is covered by healthcare or other societal systems.
That is what we want to change.
The goal of our advocacy work
Young adults who are themselves affected by cancer, and those close to someone who is affected, should receive the care and support they are entitled to, during and after a cancer diagnosis.
For this to become a reality, young adults' experiences need to be taken seriously and included where decisions are made; in their own healthcare, in politics, and especially in the development of cancer care.
How we work
Our advocacy work is based on our members' needs and perspectives. We make young adults' experiences visible, and also create conditions for our members to be involved themselves in influencing where decisions are made.
We:
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raise young adults' perspectives in political forums and in the development of healthcare
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contribute to national processes, such as the updated national cancer strategy and relevant legislation
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work closely with healthcare professionals, researchers, and authorities
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participate in reference groups and advisory bodies, both nationally and at the EU level
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spread knowledge through reports, consultation responses, lectures, and public opinion formation.
By making needs visible, identifying gaps, and working together with other actors, we contribute to more cohesive and equitable care for young adults.
