Rotary Cut Out Cancer Campaign

World-leading innovations are benefiting patients and enhancing surgical procedures

The Royal Surrey County Hospital is the regional cancer centre for Surrey, Sussex and beyond covering around 3.2 million people. It is the fourth largest cancer centre in the UK with an excellent national and international reputation. It has world-leading expertise across all the major specialities and a long-term history of innovation and improvement. 

NHS England agreed a £41million investment for the expansion of operating theatres in the Cancer and Surgical Innovation Centre (CASIC) that is due to open in 2026.  The improved facilities will allow for 7,000 more operations annually (an increase of 35%) and result in further improvements to patient outcomes, better knowledge-sharing and improved surgical techniques. 

The improved facilities will encourage more world-leading surgeons to work at the hospital, resulting in further improvements to patient outcomes, better knowledge-sharing and the development of improved surgical techniques.

In recent years, surgery has been transformed by high-tech specialised equipment and advanced technologies which are enhancing surgical procedures and offering improved outcomes for both patients and healthcare professionals alike.

These advances have revolutionised the world of healthcare with smaller incisions, improved patient’s experiences, less trauma to the body and reduced scarring leading to faster recovery times., This in turn reduces the likelihood of complications such as bleeding and infections. These advances allow surgeons to carry out incredibly precise procedures, minimise damage to healthy tissue, nerves and blood vessels. This is particularly important in delicate surgeries where the smallest mistake can lead to complications. 

Although the initial investment in such high-tech specialised medical equipment can be high, the long-term benefits make them a cost-effective option for the NHS and free-up much needed hospital beds and reduce healthcare costs over time. Additionally, the efficiencies gained from these advances can help manage the increasing demand for surgical procedures within the NHS resulting in long term lasting change.

Unfortunately, the NHS England investment excludes the costs of high-tech specialised equipment for the treatment and care of cancer patients. Rotary clubs and other organisations across Surrey and Sussex are partnering with Royal Surrey Charity - the Rotary South Cut Out Cancer campaign - to fund the purchase of high-tech specialised equipment that will allow more accurate and complex surgeries to take place, meaning faster recovery times and improved patient experience.  

Designated a District project within Rotary over 35 Rotary clubs in Surrey and Sussex have contributed to our current funds raised of £160,000.  

Further to these funds, 17 Rotary clubs from our District, together with 4 Rotary clubs in India, 5 Districts outside England and one external contributor have also helped us apply for a global grant which has been approved by Rotary Foundation.  This grant will allow us to fund 4 new pieces of equipment for the Royal Surrey County Hospital that will help in the treatment and care of cancer patients in the areas of :

• Liver, kidney, lung, or soft tissue surgery;
• Oral & Maxillofacial surgery; and
• Ear, Nose & Throat and maxillo-facial surgery

Despite our success to date, we are not finished yet and continue to call on all clubs, societies, businesses and their local communities to back the campaign, and will help transform cancer treatment and care of cancer patients in Surrey, Sussex and beyond. 

To find out more or to start your own fundraising visit: Rotary South Cut Out Cancer website