Ep. 14: How the legal profession is taking on cancer

The Power of Good, our popular podcast series, explores social value in its many forms – how it's created, why it's important and the sheer power of giving back to our communities and our planet.

In this episode, hosted by Partner Anna Phillips, our guests explore the launch of Law Beats Cancer, an industry-wide initiative bringing together the UK's legal profession to support Cancer Research UK and accelerate life-saving cancer research.

Anna is joined by Claudia Nicholls, Executive Director of Marketing, Fundraising and Engagement at Cancer Research UK, alongside Duncan Batchelor, Partner at Norton Rose Fulbright and Chair of the Board of Law Beats Cancer, and Jenny Leahy, Partner at Freshfields and Board Member of Law Beats Cancer.

The story behind Law Beats Cancer

Born from personal experiences of loss, hope and resilience, Law Beats Cancer brings together solicitors, barristers and in-house legal teams in support of Cancer Research UK.

Rather than relying on traditional fundraising alone, the movement aims to harness the legal profession's greatest strengths: its people, networks, influence and shared commitment to making a difference.

Why this conversation matters?

Nearly one in two people will face cancer during their lifetime. Yet thanks to decades of research, cancer survival rates in the UK have doubled over the last 50 years, and breakthroughs in prevention, early detection and treatment continue to transform lives.

This episode shines a light on the groundbreaking work being driven by Cancer Research UK, from vaccines that prevent cancer before it starts to innovative technologies that could make early diagnosis more accessible for everyone.

What you'll hear in this episode

• The inspiring story behind the launch of Law Beats Cancer
• How research is helping prevent cancer, not just treat it
• The impact of innovations such as the HPV vaccine and emerging screening technologies
• Why long-term investment in research is critical to future breakthroughs
• How legal professionals can support Cancer Research UK through fundraising, volunteering, partnerships and legacy giving
• The growing movement uniting the legal profession around a shared cause
• A message of hope

As Cancer Research UK continues to drive progress, every breakthrough brings us closer to a future where more cancers are prevented, detected earlier and treated more effectively.

In Claudia Nicholls' words 'Research is progress and progress is hope.'

To learn more about Law Beats Cancer, visit www.lawbeatscancer.org

Useful resources

Access all previous episodes of our podcast via our dedicated The Power of Good podcast page.