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An NHS foundation trust with a world-leading reputation for cancer services will provide support to Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust, which is currently in special measures.

The Royal Marsden has been appointed by the health sector regulator Monitor and will help Colchester fix problems with its cancer services for patients, through access to additional expertise and support.

Colchester was placed into special measures in November 2013, following concerns about cancer care. The nature and amount of support from The Royal Marsden will be tailored to Colchester’s requirements, which will be set out in an agreement between Monitor and the Royal Marsden.

Adam Cayley, Regional Director at Monitor said:

"The Royal Marsden has an excellent track record in providing specialist cancer services for its patients and will provide specifically tailored support to help Colchester improve its cancer services for its patients."

This appointment follows on from the appointment of Mark Davies, former CEO of Imperial College Healthcare and Hammersmith and St Mary’s Hospitals, to the role of Improvement Director.

Monitor continues to work with other partners, such as NHS England and the Care Quality Commission, to ensure the trust rapidly returns to offering good quality care for all patients.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• For further information please contact Emma Shepherd, Media Relations Manager or press.office@monitor.gov.uk (020 3747 0800)
• Monitor is the sector regulator of NHS-funded health care services. Under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 its main duty is to protect and promote the interests of people who use them. Information about Monitor's role can be found here.
• Follow Monitor on Twitter @MonitorUpdate