As the OXBA Hay's Employer of the Year 2022, our college is committed to its strategic objective of becoming the employer of choice for those living and working in Oxfordshire.
Part of that commitment is to ensure that staff are confident in the College's support when it comes to looking after their mental and physical health. We are therefore delighted to have partnered with Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and our commitment to raising awareness of cervical cancer and cervical screening was recognised and awarded by Samantha Dixon, CEO of the Trust, earlier this month.
Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust was the concept of London businessman, James Maxwell (1957 – 2003) in memory of his wife, Jo (1959 – 1999) who died from cervical cancer at the age of 40.
Following her diagnosis in 1995, Jo (and James) had difficulty finding good information about every aspect of cervical cancer. It was their hope that one day everyone would have easy access to the best and most up to date information and medical advice. Most importantly for Jo, it was her wish that women affected by cervical cancer would have the opportunity to communicate with others facing similar challenges.
Receiving the certificate on behalf of the College, HR Adviser, Jennifer Collett, said: "“By signing up to Time to Test with Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, we hope to raise awareness of the importance attending cervical health appointment with our employees. 1 in 4 women and people with a cervix do not attend their potentially life-saving appointment for smear tests when invited. Work should not make it harder to look after your health. The college wants our staff to be aware that they are able to attend cervical screening appointments if they are unable to attend outside working hours."
Over the past twenty years, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and its supporters have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of cervical cancer, its causes and how to prevent it. From its impact on the launch of the HPV vaccination programme to its education on screening, treatment and survivorship issues, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has continued to increase its reach and during that time has helped support thousands of people.
If you would like to find out more about Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust, the services and support it offers and how you can show your support through fundraising or volunteering go to their website.
