Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

That the Parliament recognises that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month; understands that around 320 children and young people in Scotland are diagnosed with cancer each year, and that cancer is the leading cause of death by disease for that age group; further understands that children and young people with cancer have unique needs and experiences compared with older adults, including in relation to diagnosis, treatment, mental health, research, and the financial impact of cancer for them and their families; notes that the current strategy, Collaborative and Compassionate Cancer Care: The Cancer Strategy for Children and Young People in Scotland 2021-2026 reaches the end of its lifecycle in 2026; notes what it sees as the significant financial impact that cancer has on children and young people and their families, including the cost of travelling to treatment, with research from Young Lives vs Cancer showing costs averaging £700 every month, of which £250 is spent on travelling to treatment, and that one in 10 report missing or delaying treatment because of travel costs; commends the work of Young Lives vs Cancer and other third sector organisations supporting young cancer patients across Scotland, and notes the belief that Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity for the Parliament to reflect on the unique, practical, emotional and financial impact of cancer on children and young people in Scotland and their families.