Launch of Days Matter: Driving Rapid Transformation in Cancer Pathways

We are proud to launch ‘Days Matter’ – a bold new 100-day initiative aimed at improving cancer outcomes by tackling avoidable delays across the entire cancer pathway. 

In cancer care, time is critical. Delays at any stage, whether in referral, diagnosis, treatment, or follow-up, can have a significant impact on patient outcomes and experience.  Led by the SWAG Cancer Alliance in partnership with NHS England’s Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) team, the project brings together clinical leaders, operational teams, and system partners to tackle unwarranted variation and reduce delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Days Matter is about more than just meeting targets. It’s about understanding where time is lost in the system and working together to make meaningful improvements. By using real-world data and insights, we’re identifying the points in the pathway where delays occur most often, and co-designing solutions to address them.  

The project is currently focusing on two high-priority areas: urology and colorectal cancer. These pathways have been identified as having significant opportunities for improvement, and local teams are already working through a structured 100-day challenge to test and implement changes. This includes mapping pathways, benchmarking performance, and sharing best practice through case studies and playbooks. 

But this is just the beginning. Our ambition is to embed a culture of continuous improvement across the region, ensuring that every patient benefits from faster, more responsive care. 

To learn more about the project, visit: www.swagcanceralliance.nhs.uk/days-matter