Story

Thank you so much for your support and donation! All funds received will help us to continue to develop www.cancercentral.org.uk and help our goal to support more people affected by cancer. Cancer Central is a brand-new digital platform created to provide those affected by cancer with the help and support they need during their cancer journey. Though still in its infancy (first iteration site launched Oct 2018), Cancer Central is built on an intelligent AI chat platform, nicknamed ‘Ave’ powered by IBM Watson and infoFINIUM. The platform combines a database with an innovative conversational search engine to connect people to the products, services and products, when and where they need them. These services include benefits advice, insurance products, counselling, complementary therapy, respite care, hats, wigs, lingerie, skincare, financial help, nutrition advice, local societies or communities, meals on wheels, books, blogs, forums, local hospital taxi services and so on – all based on geographical location and cancer type to provide individualised information. Over 20,000 hours have been donated by 100+ individuals and 20+ organisations to make Cancer Central a reality. Subject matter experts have contributed to everything from the ideas, suggestions, design, processes, build, testing, policies, data and so on. This way of working is described by Cancer Central as Cominovation (Community + Innovation).