Live Cancer Free CIC

Established: 2015

Legal structure: Community Interest Company

Who we are

Live Cancer Free builds awareness of preventing, recognising, treating and living with cancer. The organisation acts as a trusted resource for people seeking information and support re cancer prevention and management and focuses on increasing awareness of symptoms and risk factors. Promotion of healthy eating and exercise is a key area, as is provision of information using alternative approaches, delivered in a friendly, supportive environment.

The challenge

Having traded for some years Live Cancer Free was keen to develop alternative income streams to be less reliant on grants and to improve financial stability. The Growth Accelerator project worked with the business to develop plans for a mobile food unit and to explore the options for establishing a healthy foods range.

What was required

 Live Cancer Free was seeking improved viability and sustainability, whilst staying true to the social aim of providing free, or reasonably priced, information to local people.

Tools used:

• Future scoping
• Market research
• Financial planning
• Action planning
• Implementation and forward action

The Growth Accelerator advisor worked with Live Cancer Free to explore options and possibilities, moving from initial discussion of ideas through to development of financial options and new business offers.

Growth acceleration through

Business modelling: Focusing on identifying income streams and new markets. Exploring different financial options. Seeking new ways of working.

Business planning: Developing a far-reaching business plan. Putting ideas under scrutiny and strength checking. Developing partnerships to put ideas into action.

Action planning: Implementing partnerships to execute multiple projects including: 1) Heritage of Hope film and research, 2) Swim School, 3) Creative Bonds, 4) Healthy Food Truck.

“Being part of the Growth Accelerator project made a real difference to Live Cancer Free. It helped us grow in confidence, think more strategically, and connect with other organisations in our field. The relationships and support gained were invaluable. The funding fairs were very helpful. They gave us a clearer understanding of what funders are looking for and encouraged us to apply more confidently. The Growth Accelerator project has been such an important part of our journey. Since taking part, our annual income has more than doubled, and the organisation has grown stronger as a result of the support.” Dr Abeer Kholghi, Founder, Live Cancer Free CIC