Councillors unanimously back motion to tackle bowel and colon cancer in Sutton

Sutton Councillors have unanimously passed a motion pledging to take action against bowel and colon cancer, aiming to improve early diagnosis rates and support residents affected by the disease. Following a full council meeting on 26 January, the Council has committed to a series of initiatives in partnership with health providers and leading charities.

Bowel cancer remains one of the most common cancers in the UK, yet early detection significantly improves survival rates. While 94% of cases are in those over 50, both The Royal Marsden and Bowel Cancer UK have noted a rising incidence of more aggressive colon cancer in younger adults (under 50), with over 2,600 younger people diagnosed annually across the country. Check the signs of bowel cancer on the NHS so you know what to look for.

At the meeting, Councillor Andrew Jenner, who introduced the motion, read out a moving quote from Dame Deborah James, the journalist and campaigner who was diagnosed with incurable bowel cancer in 2016 and passed away in 2022. In her words:

“By talking about cancer, in all its guises, we make it more normal. We can break down taboos and stop people feeling embarrassed. The difference between an early and late diagnosis is the difference between life and death in many cases.”

The motion received broad cross-party support, from Councillor Tom Drummond, Leader of the Conservative Group, Councillor Dave Tchil, Leader of the Labour Group and Councillor Tim Foster, Leader of the Independent Group. 

The newly approved measures will see the council collaborate with partners, including the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), to promote healthy lifestyles, including healthy diets, to prevent future cases of bowel cancer. This includes working closely with local NHS partners to ensure that information regarding the national screening program is accessible to all eligible residents in Sutton.

The Leader of the London Borough of Sutton, Councillor Barry Lewis, said:

"Improving health outcomes for our residents is a top priority. Bowel and colon cancer can be devastating, but we know that early intervention saves lives. By passing this motion, we are sending a clear message that Sutton is dedicated to raising awareness, breaking down stigmas, and ensuring our community has the information they need to stay healthy."

The motion also outlines plans to work with charity, faith, and community sector colleagues and NHS partners to deliver a community engagement event for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month in April.

The motion, ‘Tackling Bowel and Colon Cancer in Sutton,’ was passed unanimously at Sutton’s Full Council meeting on 26 January 2026. Read the full text of the motion.