The Bone Cancer Research Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Silvia Kraft as its first Policy and Awareness Officer.
The brand-new role will deepen the charity's existing work around awareness in line with strategic objectives to provide support for early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
Having obtained a Master's degree in Social & Public Policy from the University of Leeds, Silvia brings with her a wealth of experience in political engagement alongside previous non-profit work including campaign management, community organisation, volunteer management and policy development for elected officials.
One key issue highlighted by the bone cancer community in the development of our organisational strategy was delays to diagnosis. In line with Government and NHS England targets, this new role will support advancements helping patients to receive a diagnosis at stages I and II.
Zoe Davison, Head of Research, Information and Support at the Bone Cancer Research Trust, said:
We are delighted to appoint Silvia as the charity's first Policy and Awareness Officer. This pivotal new role comes at an exciting time for the charity as we leverage Silvia's skillset to develop initiatives aimed at influencing stakeholders, delivering educational programmes for healthcare professionals and raising awareness of the guidelines for referral amongst the healthcare community, all to support our collective aim of improving outcomes for bone cancer patients.
Silvia Kraft, former Fundraising Assistant and new Policy & Awareness Officer, said:
I'm thrilled to take on this new role which will allow me to advocate for bone cancer patients to drive meaningful change. Every patient deserves a seat at the table where healthcare decisions are made, and with such a rare disease it's vital that all those involved, from healthcare professionals to MPs, understand that things have to improve.
Alongside advocating for early diagnosis, the new Policy and Awareness Officer will also evaluate evidence on quality of life and living beyond treatment to complement ongoing projects that help address gaps in late effects care.
The Policy and Awareness Officer role marks a significant step forward for the Bone Cancer Research Trust as it develops recommendations to influence policy and decision makers both inside and outside the NHS, parliamentarians, and healthcare professionals.