Support for children

If you or the person you are caring for has children or grandchildren, you may need support for them as well.

For most children and teenagers, it is best to be honest and talk to them as much as possible about what is going on. A good starting point can be to ask them what they think is happening. Depending on the age of the child, you can respond and explain things in simple language they will understand.

Answer any questions as honestly as you can and check they have understood. If appropriate, try to involve them in family decisions.

Some children and teenagers behave differently, or become quiet and withdrawn when someone they know is affected by cancer. It can help to let their school know what is happening so they can get any support they need at school.

These organisations all provide support for children who have a parent with cancer

  • The Cancer Fund for Children supports children and young people in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland with cancer, or living with a parent with cancer.
  • The Fruit Fly Collective produce a range of helpful information and tools.
  • Hope Support Services offers support services to children and young people who have a close family member with a serious illness.
  • The Osborne Trust offer emotional and practical support to children and young people.
  • RipRap is a UK website aimed at teenagers who have a parent with cancer.
  • Winston’s Wish provide information and support for children with a parent who has a serious illness, or who have been bereaved.

Your family member’s nurse may also be able to give you information and advice about talking to children.

May 2024

To be reviewed May 2027