Donate
Beatson Cancer Charity recently marked a milestone with their Civic Reception held at Glasgow City Chambers to celebrate its 10th birthday. The event, which took place earlier this month, was co-hosted by the Rt Hon Lord Provost of Glasgow and President of Beatson Cancer Charity, Jacqueline McLaren. Together, they welcomed volunteers and stakeholders, and distinguished guests to celebrate a decade of impact.
The reception began with a warm welcome from Tam the Piper, who ushered guests into the venue with traditional music. The event featured an array of teas, coffees, and cakes for attendees to enjoy before an engaging series of speeches commenced. Notable speakers included the Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren; the Scottish Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, Neil Gray; Beatson Cancer Charity’s CEO, Martin Cawley; and the charity’s chairman, Jamie Mathieson.
PICTURED: Neil Gray, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care
One of the highlights of the event was Neil Gray's insightful remarks on the charity's strategic direction aligning with the Scottish Government's 10-year cancer strategy, emphasising the importance of collaboration in improving cancer care.
“I’m sure you’re all aware of the Scottish Government’s 10-year cancer strategy for Scotland and the three-year action plan which was published in June last year.
“Over the next ten years our aim is to improve cancer survival and provide excellent and accessible care.
“The strategy and plan take a comprehensive approach to improving cancer care and survival from prevention and diagnosis through to treatment and post-treatment care.
“The strategy and plan have people living with cancer, their families and carers at their very heart.
“Delivery of that would not be possible without organisations such as Beatson Cancer Charity.
“I welcome the charity’s current three-year strategic plan which is clearly aligned with the Scottish Government’s aims and in particular, our joint focus on person-centred care for all affected by cancer.”
PICTURED: James Mathieson, Chairman of Beatson Cancer Charity
Our chairman dedicated a section of his speech to our CEO, Martin Cawley, who has decided to move on from the role of Chief Executive of the organisation later this year.
“It has been my privilege and honour to work with Martin.
“We could not have wished for a better chief executive. He is quite extraordinary and great fun, humourous, intelligent.
“He certainly is an ambassador for dignity and respect for others. The job he has done for your charity is second to none.
“So, Martin, when in due course, you do step down later this year, I and I’m sure everybody in this room who might not have the chance to wish you well, do so now.
“Martin, thank you very much indeed.”
I want to thank all of you for the work that has been done over the last decade, the work that is still to come to support people at the most challenging time of their lives when they receive that diagnosis to ensure they receive the best possible care and treatment and the best possible outcome.”
Guests were then shown a video which was made specifically for the event showcasing 10 years of Beatson Cancer Charity.
This highlighted key achievements by Beatson Cancer Charity, including the wellbeing team offering care, support and therapies to over 260,000 individuals in the last decade.
It also highlighted work in research, as we have invested £34 million into innovative research, including support for clinical trials and new clinical services. This includes £19 million of grant awards.
Beatson Cancer Charity staff took the opportunity to speak with guests during the event to thank them for their involvement in the success of the organisation and discuss plans for the future of the charity.
Guests were also invited to write birthday cards to the charity on the day which will be displayed in key areas of the organisation’s offices as well as the welcome desk, hub and Café at The Beatson.
PICTURED: Attendees writing our 10th birthday cards
For anyone who missed the event, here is our photo album where you can view all the highlights from the day:
*To view and interact with the full content of the Flickr album, simply click on any photo to access the original album on the Flickr website. From there, you can browse through all the photos, download or share them.*
Stay updated on our future events by visiting our Events page here. Keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities to support us and get involved in our mission to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. Follow us on social media for the latest updates and announcements on future events.
