Calderdale Cancer Aware: Changing the conversation about cancer in the community

Cancer doesn’t just affect health; it touches every part of life. But for many people, finding support is hard. Language, culture and background can all create barriers. Too often, that leads to later diagnoses, more complex treatment, and worse outcomes.

In Calderdale, more than 1,100 people are diagnosed with cancer each year, yet screening uptake is below the national average. Calderdale Cancer Aware, a three-year project funded by Macmillan and run by Halifax Opportunities Trust, is changing that.

A lifeline for the community

Kate Dearden, MP for Halifax, recently visited the project to see it in action. She met residents like Yorsabel, Calderdale resident, who says:

“Calderdale Cancer Aware has been a lifeline. They’ve supported me with my health and my wellbeing. I wouldn’t be here without them.”

In less than a year, the team has reached more than 2,500 people. From women’s health to weekly Chat & Chai groups, they have created safe spaces where people feel comfortable asking questions. Sports events are helping men open up about health, often the hardest group to reach.

Kate Dearden, MP for Halifax, says:

“Too many people here are diagnosed late, when treatment is harder and outcomes are worse. This project is helping to change that.”

Every activity is shaped around what the community needs from health talks in mosques to women-led sessions with local doctors. Each one respects cultural values while creating space for difficult conversations.

Playing an important role

By respecting cultural values, creating safe spaces, and working alongside local champions, the project is helping communities talk more openly, understand their health risks better, and feel empowered to act sooner.

Professionals have noted the project’s unique ability to create spaces “where individuals can laugh, cry, and talk openly about cancer”, something that’s rarely been possible before. This shift in culture is no accident; it’s the result of a bespoke, responsive approach that adapts to feedback and puts people first.

The project has also trained a growing group of Cancer Champions. Teachers, faith leaders and council staff are spreading awareness across Calderdale.

Julian Backhouse, who leads our Cancer Champions programme, says:

“Community-led projects like this are vital in tackling health inequalities. Trusted local organisations can make real, lasting change.”

Looking to the future

This work is already changing lives and there are still two years left on the project's funding. Many are worried about what will happen when it ends. The trust and relationships built can't be replaced overnight.

One community member summed it up:

"We need to normalise this topic; we can't hide in shame anymore."

We’ll keep working with trusted partners like Halifax Opportunities Trust so more people can talk openly about cancer, understand their health risks, and get support sooner.

Learn more about Calderdale Cancer Aware and their community events on their Facebook page.

Whether you’re active in your community, represent your workplace, or simply want to make a difference you can help us reach more people living with cancer.

Join the Cancer Champion Community and play a vital role in:

• raising awareness
• supporting others
• signposting to relevant support 

Get involved today

If you or someone you know has been affected by cancer, we're here to support you.

• Call our Support Line for free on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm.
• We have information about cancer types and treatments.
• Find out more about local services in your area.

This information has been written, revised and edited by Macmillan's Digital Content Editor team and checked by Macmillan's Cancer Information Development team.

Learn more about our Digital Content Editors and how we produce our cancer information.