Charity-funded Medical Research

Chris Green highlighted the profound impact of the pandemic on charity-funded medical research, noting a loss of millions of hospital appointments, GP visits, and cancer screenings. He stressed the importance of funding for clinical trials and early-career researchers, citing examples like the British Heart Foundation and the Francis Crick Institute. Asked Wera Hobhouse if she agreed with the view that collaboration between the private sector, universities, and research institutes is key to maintaining our position in medical research globally. Chris Green called for a £320 million commitment to long-term research projects, including those involving clinical trials and university students, stating that this would provide reassurance.

Ms Liz Twist highlighted the impact of charity-funded medical research, particularly in breast cancer and rare conditions. She noted that events like 'Wear it Pink' have raised over £33 million for breast cancer research but have been disrupted by covid-19. Charity retail shops have closed, affecting their ability to raise funds and engage with people. The pandemic has led to a 41% decrease in research spend planned by medical charities, resulting in a shortfall of £310 million. She emphasised the urgent need for support in rare conditions like neuromuscular diseases and dementia.

Lucy Powell highlighted the significant impact of the COVID-19 crisis on medical research charities, noting that funding has dropped by 38% this year and is projected to decrease further in the coming years. She stressed that charity-funded research accounts for nearly half of all UK medical research, with a shortfall of £310 million expected over the next year. Powell pointed out that without government support, these charities risk losing their ability to fund clinical trials, impact researchers' careers, and contribute to regional economic growth.

Clinical trials and research are essential for developing effective treatments but have been impacted by the pandemic. Neale Hanvey highlighted that about 4,500 children and young people are diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK, making it the most common cause of death among under-15s. Charities like Children with Cancer UK face a significant income loss due to the pandemic, which could set back medical research by years.

Charities have invested £14 billion in research over the last decade, funding staff and driving clinical trials. However, due to the impact of COVID-19, there is a £310 million shortfall in funding leading to a 41% decline in research spending this year alone. This threatens the recovery of medical research and could result in the loss of vital skills among researchers. She is grateful for the powerful points made by her hon. Friend and argues that given the amount spent on covid-19, £310 million could make a significant difference in light of people not being able to access regular services in the NHS.

I am concerned about the devastating effect of covid-19 on charity-funded medical research, particularly in the context of eating disorders. The importance of charity support for understanding and treating eating disorders is highlighted by their high prevalence among young women, affecting up to 15% of that age group, with a mortality rate comparable to anorexia nervosa's highest mental health condition rate. Despite this, there remains limited research funding focusing on the causes of eating disorders.