A BARNSLEY man is using his own experience of cancer to launch a new campaign aimed to raise money for children and their families who face similar heartbreaking diagnoses.

Paul Dolan, who grew up and lives in Barnsley, is the chief executive of Riverside one of the UK’s leading not-for-profit social housing organisations.

Back in 2024, just two weeks after starting his role at the company, Paul received a shock ‘life-changing’ bowel cancer diagnosis.

He was treated at Barnsley Hospital and following successful surgery he returned to work last year.

Since then, Paul has been determined to give something back with a specific focus on children and young people diagnosed with cancer.

Now, inspired by his time working as a Michelin-trained chef with Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons in Oxford, the new Cook off for Cancer campaign will target housing professionals, national and local businesses, celebrity chefs and the public.

Throughout this year, Cook off for Cancer participants will be able to take part in a variety of national and regional events to celebrate the joy of eating with others while also raising donations to support the work of Young Lives vs Cancer.

Based across the UK, Young Lives vs Cancer is the leading national charity for children and young people living with cancer and their families.

In 2023/2024, the charity supported 534 families in Yorkshire through its specialist social worker teams.

Paul said: “I know first-hand just how devastating a cancer diagnosis can be not only for yourself but also for those who love you the most.

“During my treatment I became particularly concerned for my two children who had to learn how to live alongside a parent who has cancer.

“It’s with this in mind that I have started the Cook off for Cancer campaign.

“Cancer is a cruel disease but especially for children.

“The important impact that Young Lives vs Cancer has for children and their families cannot be overstated and I hope that many will join me this year in raising as much money as possible for this deserving charity.”

A fundraising link has also been launched.

Sue Collins, director of fundraising and engagement at the charity, said: “We’re delighted that Paul Dolan and The Riverside Group have chosen to raise funds for Young Lives vs Cancer.

“Every penny raised will allow us to continue the vital work we do, supporting children and young people throughout the UK, who are experiencing a cancer diagnosis.

“At Young Lives vs Cancer, we help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer.

“We stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time.”