Ards and North Down Borough Council has unanimously supported a motion to boost breast cancer awareness across the area, following a personal appeal from a councillor undergoing treatment.

Green Party councillor Lauren Kendall, who represents Holywood and Clandeboye, brought the notice of motion and told colleagues she had attended what she hoped was her final chemotherapy session earlier that day. She said she still faces surgeries, radiotherapy, and years of further treatment.

Ms Kendall said early diagnosis makes a real difference to treatment, curative intent, and prognosis. She noted breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Northern Ireland apart from melanoma, and while more common in older age groups, it is affecting younger women.

She praised the work of Breast Cancer Now, Macmillan, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, Action Cancer, and other charities. She also thanked health service staff who have helped her.

The motion calls for continued promotion of cancer awareness, encouragement of open conversations about symptoms, and better signposting to information and support. It also urges work with recognised charities.

Several councillors voiced support. DUP councillor Alistair Cathcart recalled Action Cancer providing mobile mammogram units for women aged 40 to 49 and over 70 during his time as mayor. Alliance councillor Gillian McCollum praised Ms Kendall's openness. Independent councillor Katherine Newman stressed the importance of signposting.

The council will now consider ways to increase awareness throughout the borough.