Support for children and their families

There is lots of help and support available for children, their parents, siblings and other family members.

Although around 80 out of 100 children (about 80%) diagnosed with cancer will live for at least 10 years or more, childhood cancer is still devastating for everyone concerned.

Treatment can last for months, or even years, which means long stays in hospital and being away from the home, school, friends and siblings. School age children may fall behind.

Even though children’s wards have teachers to keep the children's school work up to date, side effects from the cancer and its treatment often make children very tired. They might not always feel like not doing anything, except having a cuddle with mum or dad.

Helping families cope

Childhood cancer survivors are at an increased risk of low mood, anxiety or post traumatic stress disorder or phobias related to having medical treatment.

Researchers have been looking at how families cope when a child has cancer and what factors are important in making the child (and family) either more vulnerable or better able to cope with cancer and its consequences.

As well as the doctors and nurses on the ward, you and your child will be supported by a number of professionals during and after treatment, including:

• your GP
• cancer nurse specialists
• social workers
• play specialists
• psychologist or psychotherapist

Getting information and support

There is a lot of support available to help you and your child.

Cancer Research UK Information Nurses

Children's cancer organisations

We have more information on different children's cancer organisations. You can contact for them for information, help and support. 

Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG)

The Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG) work to coordinate national and international clinical trials. They also provide information about cancer for children and their families.

Phone: 0333 050 7654
Email: info@cclg.org.uk

Cancer Chat

Cancer Research UK has an online forum called Cancer Chat. You might find it helpful to join the forum to:

• talk to other people whose children or grandchildren have cancer
• share your experiences
• find information