Key figures from business, philanthropy and cancer research came together in Newcastle last week (11 March) to discuss the future of cancer trials and the vision for the Sir Bobby Robson Institute, a centre dedicated to accelerating cancer research and improving patient outcomes.
The event, hosted by Newcastle Hospitals Charity at the Freeman Hospital, brought together an exceptional panel of speakers to explore how bold leadership, collaboration and investment can drive innovation in cancer care.
Timed to coincide with International Women’s Day, the discussion highlighted the role of influential women across healthcare, business and philanthropy in shaping the future of research and regional impact.
The panel included, newly appointed Chief Executive of Develop North PLC, Michelle Percy, and Anne Reece, Chair of the Reece Foundation. They were joined by Professor Ruth Plummer, Director of the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, who shared insights into the simple question that led to the founding of The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and how pioneering clinical trials are already transforming cancer treatment for patients across the region and beyond.
The conversation was chaired by Professor Jane Robinson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Place at Newcastle University, who leads the University’s work to strengthen partnerships that support the region’s development, and was opened by North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness.
Speaking at the event, Professor Ruth Plummer spoke about the incredible patients who take part in clinical trials, she said: “The people I see in my clinic have got cancer and have no treatment options left, so are looking to take something where we’re not sure about the dose and we’re not sure about the side effects.
“Those are incredible people, and everybody, including Sir Bobby at one point said, ‘well the trial didn’t help me but it might help somebody else.’ The patients say that to me – that helping would be enough – and that’s incredible.”
Reflecting on where she hoped the institute will be in 2034 Ruth said: “People ask what I’m proud about and proud isn’t the right word. For me, in 2034, it is more of the patient stories, more of the person who said to me ‘I’d just like to see the kids through primary school’ and I know she recently made a trip to Manchester University to see her daughter there – those stories to me are what makes this worth doing.”
The Sir Bobby Robson Institute will be fully funded by The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity. Located opposite the Northern Centre for Cancer Care at the Freeman Hospital, the institute will enable ground-breaking cancer treatment that will directly benefit around 3.5million people living in the North East, north Cumbria and North Yorkshire and will have a global impact.
Building work will officially start in April, with more than £20million raised so far thanks to the incredible donors, fundraisers and supporters of the Foundation a campaign to raise the final funds will launch soon.
