Thanks to an outpouring of generosity from the local community, Southend Hospital is now home to cutting-edge cancer treatment technology. The success comes after the Spotlight Radiotherapy Appeal raised an outstanding £920,000, well above its original £600,000 target.
Launched in early 2023 by the Southend Hospital Charitable Foundation, the appeal’s ambitious aim was to fund new radiotherapy equipment that would transform cancer care for local patients. The response from residents, businesses, and organisations was truly overwhelming, and the target was not only met but far exceeded.
Photographs by Kim Tobin Photography
To celebrate the achievement, a special event was held at Thorpe Hall Golf Club, bringing together charity trustees, supporters, NHS staff, and the hospital’s radiotherapy team to mark the occasion and thank those who made it possible.
Cutting-Edge Cancer Tech Arrives
The money raised has funded the installation of Surface Guided Radiotherapy Treatment (SGRT), a state-of-the-art system that allows treatment to be delivered with more precision and greater comfort and speed for patients. The technology removes the need for permanent tattoo markings and enables the use of open face masks for those undergoing treatment for head and neck cancers.
Emma Wynne-Morgan, Chair of the Charitable Foundation, said, “We were overwhelmed by the generosity shown. The support we received has truly been life-changing for patients.”
Major contributions came from across the community, including local Rotary Clubs, the Essex Masons (who gave over £100,000), New Leaf (£60,000), and Stockvale Ltd, whose continued charity partnership made a big impact.
Matthew Hopkins, Chief Executive of the NHS Trust, praised the appeal’s success, saying it had greatly improved both clinical care and the patient experience in Southend’s radiotherapy department.
Although the Spotlight Appeal has now officially closed, the Foundation has set up a dedicated fund to continue supporting cancer care at Southend Hospital – ensuring this incredible community effort will have a lasting legacy.
Please visit the charity website for more information:
spotlightappeal.org