The Wales Cancer Research Centre (WCRC) successfully engaged with visitors of all ages at this year’s Eisteddfod, offering an immersive and educational experience as part of the Science and Technology Village.
Over the course of the event, volunteers and staff from WCRC, in collaboration with Cardiff University (CU), provided a series of engaging activities designed to enhance public understanding of the cancer research the Centre supports.
The Eisteddfod Maes, known for its wide array of cultural and educational activities, hosted over 150 stands and stalls, ranging from local crafts to major public sector organisations. The event offered a diverse programme that included literature, folk music, STEM activities, and more, reflecting the rich tapestry of Welsh culture and celebrating the Welsh language.
The WCRC stand featured a variety of interactive activities aimed at educating visitors of all ages about cancer. These included using microscopes to explore blood cells, participating in cancer-themed activities with an anatomical body, engaging in a ‘cancer killing’ computer game, and trying out an immuno-oncology themed giant dartboard game. These activities, delivered to visitors bilingually, were designed not only to educate but also to create a fun and memorable experience for all who attended.
Throughout the event, a dedicated team ensured the stand was fully staffed and visitors were well-assisted with games and activities. WCRC Researcher Dr Mat Clement, WCRC Hub team Sarah Hughes, Jenni Macdougall, Professor Awen Gallimore and Professor Mererid Evans, PPI Research Partner Kathy Seddon and Celyn Morris from ECMC Cardiff provided all-day coverage, with additional support from CU student ambassadors.
The team were also joined by Molly Fenton who was representing The Brain Tumour Charity. Reflecting on her experience Molly said:
“Today I saw the fantastic work of Mathew Clement and the Wales Cancer Research Centre. The stand they had was all about interactive learning… had I been taught about tumours in the way the children were taught today by WCRC, I think the shock and anxiety of my own diagnosis would’ve been much better. The words cancer and tumours are scary. We used them A LOT today. Yet we had nothing but positive interactions. We can’t escape these things, but we can try understand them. Mat and his team scientifically, but myself and other young people literally. Best event I’ve ever done in this space by a mile – well done everyone and thank you for involving me.”
Professor Mererid Evans, WCRC Director said:
“Engaging with the public at the Eisteddfod has been a rewarding experience that has helped us to begin to change the narrative around cancer. By offering interactive and hands-on activities in both English and Welsh, we aimed to interest people of all ages in cancer research and foster a greater understanding of the work we do. Our goal was to reduce the fear and anxiety often associated with the disease, making science accessible and empowering for everyone. Diolch yn fawr iawn to Cardiff University for their organisation and to all the volunteers whose enthusiasm made our time at the event such a success. We look forward to the next one!”