The National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) is delighted to be shortlisted in the Greater Manchester Cancer Awards 2026. The awards recognise the teams and individuals making a real difference for people affected by cancer across the region.
The nomination highlights the success of the Mammography Associate (MA) Apprenticeship Programme, an initiative led by Lyndsay Kinnear, NBIA Lead Radiographer as the Chair of the Apprenticeship Trailblazer Group. Created in 2018 in response to national workforce shortages, the programme has seen more than 300 apprentices enrol, and over 200 are now qualified. More than half of all MAs in England have trained through the NBIA. NBIA MA apprentices have come from 47 NHS trusts, and there are now 40 qualified apprentices working in Greater Manchester.
The programme has helped transform breast screening services. In Greater Manchester:
- There has been a 70% rise in screening staff since 2019, enabling more appointments and shorter waits.
- Screening uptake has increased from 62.8% in 2019 to 71% in 2025 – its highest in more than a decade.
- Screening round length (the interval between breast screening and invitation for the next screen) has improved from 44.7% to 90%, exceeding national standards
- Long‑standing staffing shortages have significantly eased. The increased capacity has supported faster diagnosis, better patient experience, and expanded evening and weekend appointments.
Across England, an independent evaluation also estimates the programme will save the NHS around £18 million over 10 years.
Patients frequently highlight the difference MAs make. One shared:
“I was extremely nervous… but Andrea showed such patience, care and kindness – it made all the difference.”
Collaboration has been central to the programme’s success. With the NBIA leading the MA Apprenticeship Trailblazer group, the apprenticeship was developed with 18 NHS trusts, academic partners, the NHS Breast Screening Programme and the Society & College of Radiographers. The NBIA also benefits from guidance from its patient representative, Fiona Harrison, whose lived experience helps shape the programme to ensure it continues to meet patient needs.
The apprenticeship has helped reduce health inequalities by enabling longer or adapted appointments for people with disabilities or learning needs, and by creating an accessible entry route into healthcare roles, as no formal qualifications are required to apply.
Reflecting on the impact of the programme, Amanda Bath, Breast Imaging Clinical Manager at MFT, said:
“The increased number of MAs has strengthened the breast screening service and the wider workforce. Their contribution has helped maintain key screening targets, supported radiographers to progress into advanced roles, and improved financial sustainability through reduced agency spending.”
Commenting on the Award nomination, Lyndsay Kinnear said:
“Being shortlisted for the Greater Manchester Cancer Awards is a proud moment for everyone involved in the programme. It reflects the dedication of the apprentices, trainers, clinical teams, academic partners and patients who have all helped shape and strengthen this national initiative. We are looking forward to joining colleagues from across the region at the awards ceremony in May.”