The South West London and Surrey Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 7 March 2024 to discuss proposals for the future location of very specialist cancer treatment services for children. The committee ratified its informal response to an independent consultation report, expressing a unanimous preference for St George's Hospital over Evelina London Children's Hospital.

Proposals for the future location of very specialist cancer treatment services for children

The committee considered the findings of the South West London and Surrey Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee regarding proposals for the future location of very specialist cancer treatment services for children in south London and much of south east England. The Sub-Committee's report, which was ratified by the main committee, concluded that St George's Hospital is the preferred choice should a service move be required.

Key reasons cited for this preference include St George's Hospital's more accessible location, its experience with paediatric oncology and specialised tumour surgery, and its close working relationship with The Royal Marsden. The committee also noted the potential for St George's to utilise family suites for parents to stay alongside their children and the planned investment in a new children's cancer facility.

Conversely, the committee highlighted concerns regarding a potential move to Evelina London Children's Hospital. These concerns included its central London location, which was deemed difficult for families to access, particularly by car, and the associated costs. Issues around accommodation, staff training and retention, and Evelina's perceived lack of experience in paediatric oncology were also raised. The committee also noted that while Evelina has a shared IT system with The Royal Marsden, the working relationship between St George's and The Royal Marsden is considered stronger and not easily replicated.

The committee also discussed the proposal for conventional radiotherapy services to move to University College Hospital. While acknowledging potential benefits of centralising these services, concerns were raised about the increased travel times for some families and the loss of resilience from having a single radiotherapy site.

The committee's response to NHS England will advocate for St George's as the preferred Principal Treatment Centre (PTC) and also suggests that NHS England consider a risk-adapted model . This model would involve retaining key services, such as radiotherapy, at The Royal Marsden, with St George's designated as the PTC. The committee stressed the importance of NHS England carefully considering all consultation findings and ensuring all stakeholders' voices have been heard. The final decision on the location of the services is expected to be made by NHS England leaders in Spring 2024.