Celebrating 2025’s National Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Day

Today marks the fourth annual Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Day, celebrating and promoting the expertise of the role and the important part it plays in cancer care.

On average, someone is diagnosed with cancer every 90 seconds in England, so they will need the expert support of this profession. Here at QVH, we have Cancer CNSs working in our skin, head & neck and breast teams, providing a range of physical and psycho-social support for our patients.

Cancer CNSs play a vital role in improving patient experience and outcomes. Their expertise extends beyond clinical care, offering emotional and psychological support tailored to each patient’s needs. By working closely with multidisciplinary teams, they help coordinate care and ensure that every patient receives compassionate, individualised support. We are incredibly proud of our Cancer CNSs and the dedication they bring to their roles.

As part of marking this day, we asked some of our Cancer CNSs a few questions about their job, to celebrate the incredible work CNSs do and myth-bust preconceptions around working in cancer:

I became a cancer clinical nurse specialist because…

Clare: “I am passionate about supporting head and neck cancer patients through their cancer journey.”

Elecia: “There is no greater feeling than knowing during their darkest hours you are that one constant light that patients come to know and trust.”

Sophie: “Being a source of comfort and support that patients and their families can trust at such a difficult time is hugely rewarding.”

Being a cancer clinical nurse specialist is rewarding because…

Pam: “The daily challenges make you reflect and improve your practice. No two days are the same and it is immensely rewarding supporting patients and colleagues every day.”

Bincey: “I can support patients when they are at their most vulnerable and know that I am making a positive impact on their life.”

Michelle: “You become a support network for the patients from diagnosis to treatment, sharing information, knowledge and guidance to help make their cancer pathway as stress-free as possible.”

I enjoy being a cancer clinical nurse specialist because…

Rebecca: “It is a privilege to be able to say that I am there to support women with breast cancer at the most difficult times of their lives.”

This is my favourite job because…

Mandy: “I’ve had a varied career in nursing but I love this role because I know I really do make a difference.”

On behalf of our patients, their family and friends, and your colleagues across the hospital – thank you for all that you do.