Readers Panel

What is the Readers’ Panel?

The Readers’ Panel is a group of volunteers from the public who review draft patient information materials – such as leaflets, letters, posters, websites, videos, and apps – before they are published. These materials are produced by the Northern Cancer Alliance (NCA) or its partners across the North East and North Cumbria (NENC) to improve cancer services, care, and patient outcomes.

Who coordinates the Readers’ Panel

Northern Cancer Voices (NCV), a registered charity, facilitates the Readers’ Panel on behalf of the Northern Cancer Alliance. It coordinates the process and ensures feedback is collected and shared with partner organisations.

Who are the readers?

Readers are members of the public who volunteer their time to help improve patient communication. They may include:

• People affected by cancer
• Carers
• Representatives of the local community
• Individuals with an interest in healthcare

Their role is to review materials for:

• Clarity and readability
• Usefulness and completeness

How does the process work?

Readers receive documents/materials via email and are asked to comment back to the Panel Coordinator on things like language and visuals.

A standard feedback question set is used. This helps panel members to know what to expect each time, prompts them to comment on key elements they might otherwise overlook, and ensures all materials are reviewed against the same expectations.

You will also be able to provide an overall rating for the information and any general comments you may have.

The process is virtual you do not need to meet face-to-face or attend a meeting online.

The Panel Coordinator will give a deadline for returning comments.

Why get involved?

Getting involved as a reader on the panel means having a real impact on the quality of health information across the North East and North Cumbria.

Your feedback helps ensure that the public voice is heard, that information is easy to understand, and that it supports people at some of the most important moments in their lives.

Whether you can contribute regularly or only occasionally, every insight makes a difference.  It’s a meaningful way to use your lived experience, perspective, and voice to improve health communication for thousands of people.

We are keen that the panel includes adults of all ages, genders and backgrounds, representing a wide range of communities to ensure diverse perspectives and truly inclusive feedback.

Contact info@northerncancervoices.co.uk to get involved or for more information.