16/07/2026
We were delighted to welcome the Minister for Health, Mike Nesbitt MLA, to the North West Cancer Centre this week.
The Minister was greeted by our Interim Chair, Brian Telford; Chief Executive, Karen Hargan and Director of Unscheduled Care, Medicine, Cancer and Clinical Services, Gearldine McKay before meeting with Pharmacy and Cancer Services staff.
During the Minister’s visit, the HSJ award-winning Medicines Optimisation in Older People with Cancer (MOOC) service was highlighted as an innovative pharmacy-led initiative improving the safety, quality and experience of care for older cancer patients with complex medication needs. The outcomes of this invest to save initiative demonstrated significant financial benefits through prevention of avoidable harm, more appropriate use of medicines and better outcomes for our patients. The Macmillan sponsored project was recognised nationally, winning the HSJ Patient Safety Award 2025 for Improving Care for Older People Initiative of the Year. The visit also showcased the valuable contribution of pharmacy technicians in supporting modern, patient-centred cancer care. The Minister was also pleased to hear about the significant benefits the Medpoint Machine, this innovation was a first for Northern Ireland and allows patients the freedom to collect their oral cancer treatments at a time that suits them.
The Minister had the opportunity to meet with members of the Radiotherapy Treatment Team, tour the department and view the Linear Accelerator (LINAC) treatment machine. During the visit, he heard how cutting-edge radiotherapy treatments are helping to deliver world-class cancer care for patients across the North West.
Before departing the Cancer Centre, Minister Nesbitt took time to meet volunteer Luke Boyle, who recently gained widespread attention on social media following the sharing of his talented piano performances. Luke regularly volunteers at the North West Cancer Centre, playing the piano for patients, families and visitors, helping to create a warm and welcoming environment. He also gives his time in the Emergency Department, providing refreshments and support to those awaiting treatment and care. The Minister was delighted to hear that Luke will continue his contribution to Health and Social Care as he begins his Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) studies at Ulster University, and wished him every success in his future career.
The Minister for Health then travelled to our Gransha site to meet management, staff and families behind the recently launched Children with Disabilities Short Break Fostering Service, a regional initiative that provides planned, regular short breaks for children and young people with disabilities and their families. The service aims to give children opportunities to build confidence, independence and positive relationships through new experiences in a safe and supportive environment, while also providing parents and carers with valuable respite and support. The team and families involved highlighted the positive difference the service can make and their ongoing efforts to recruit compassionate foster carers to help strengthen families and enable children with disabilities to thrive.