Three Shires Hospital recognised for outstanding cancer service
The Larkin Oncology Unit at Northampton’s Three Shires Hospital has been recognised for delivering an outstanding cancer service by Macmillan Cancer Support. The rigorous assessment evaluated oncology services in four key areas: design and use of space, service experience, the patient journey and patient voice. Assessors who evaluated the hospital in May took notice of new unit artwork, new unit name, comfortable new chairs, blinds and information boards which contributed to the unit receiving an Excellent rating.
The Macmillan Quality Environment Mark was launched in 2010, in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support and the Department of Health to better meet the needs of patients living with cancer. Hospitals, hospices and support centres are all eligible for the award, demonstrating their commitment to going above and beyond in the interests of their patients.
Four categories are evaluated before the award can be given. They range from how the clinical environment is designed to ensure patients feel comfortable and welcome, through to service experience and patient voice. To meet the standards required, the organisations being accessed must meet an 80% overall average in each of the four categories.
Three Shires Hospital’s Larkin Oncology Unit was first accessed in 2020 and reassessed in 2023- receiving a ‘Very Good’ rating by assessors. Three years on, in May 2026 assessors awarded the service the highest possible rating of ‘Excellent’. The Oncology Unit at Three Shires, which opened more than a decade ago, was later renamed the Larkin Oncology Unit in honour of a much-loved colleague who sadly lost their life to cancer. The renaming followed a vote involving both hospital staff and patients.
Assessors also noted that “It was evident that patients' options had been considered with unit upgrades- valuing their ideas and opinions and including them in the decision-making process.” Three Shires Hospital is now considered to be an exceptional example of best practice for cancer services.
Kat Jackson, Clinical Services Manager for Oncology, said: “We are incredibly proud of this fantastic achievement, which recognises the improvements made since our last assessment to create an environment that truly meets the needs and wishes of our patients. Our aim has always been to provide a comfortable, safe, and caring setting for people receiving treatment with us. Throughout the improvement process, patients have been actively consulted to ensure the changes reflected what matters most to them, and it is wonderful to see those efforts recognised and valued by both the assessors and our patient community.”