The West Midlands Cancer Alliance has been working closely with provider organisations across the region to support the adoption and implementation of all three components of the ACCEND Framework. As part of the 2026/27 national requirements, trusts are expected to demonstrate meaningful progress in embedding ACCEND through robust implementation plans and active workforce engagement.
Local implementation activity should consider a range of key areas, including:
NHS England has asked Cancer Alliances to report against a number of measures, including the number of provider organisations with established ACCEND implementation plans and the extent of workforce engagement with the framework.
We recognise that organisations are progressing at different stages of ACCEND implementation. To support a consistent and practical approach across the region, the West Midlands Cancer Alliance workforce team has developed a range of resources, guidance and tools to help trusts embed the framework effectively and realise its benefits for the cancer workforce.
The WMCA ACCEND Blueprint provides a practical framework to support workforce transformation across cancer services. It translates the national ACCEND framework into a regional approach, helping organisations develop cancer capabilities, career pathways, education, and workforce planning to ensure patients receive high quality, person-centred care.
Click here to access the full WMCA Blueprint -
The ACCEND Executive Summary and Roadmap provide a high level overview of the ACCEND framework and a practical guide to implementation, supporting organisations to develop the cancer workforce through structured career pathways, education and role development.
Click here to access -
A practical guide designed to support ACCEND Champions in leading and promoting workforce transformation within their organisation. The handbook provides resources, guidance and tools to help embed ACCEND principles, engage stakeholders and drive sustainable cancer workforce development.
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