Gareth Howells, Chief Executive at Tenovus Cancer Care, in response to Unheard: Women’s journey through gynaecological cancer – Follow‑up report on implementation of recommendations (January 2026)
“Claire’s Campaign and Tenovus Cancer Care welcome the Health and Social Care Committee’s follow‑up report into the implementation of the Unheard recommendations and thank Members for revisiting this vital issue.
“However, two years on from the landmark report, it is deeply concerning to see in black and white just how little progress has been made. Despite gynaecological cancer being identified by the Welsh Government as a priority tumour site, women in Wales are still not consistently receiving the timely, high‑quality care they deserve.
“Our evidence to the Committee demonstrates that the original recommendations from the Unheard report have not been implemented at the pace that we – and women - rightfully expected. If gynaecological cancer is truly a priority, the Welsh Government’s response must instil confidence that lessons have been learned and that urgent action will follow.
“We began calling for this follow‑up inquiry while Claire O’Shea was still alive. Tragically, both Claire and Judith Rowlands - who, along with Linda Drew, gave evidence to the original inquiry - have since died. Yet women continue to come forward with experiences of being dismissed, delayed and unheard. We owe it to all three, and to every woman affected, to ensure that their bravery was not in vain.
“We welcome the cross-party support shown by the Committee and remain ready to work constructively with the Welsh Government and NHS Wales to help turn these recommendations into real improvements for women across Wales.”
