Children's cancer support and organisations
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.
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
There is a lot of support available to help you and your child.
We have more information on different children's cancer organisations. You can contact for them for information, help and support.
Find out more about children's cancer organisations
The Children and Young People's Cancer Association (CCLG) work to coordinate national and international clinical trials. They were previously called the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group. They also provide information about cancer for children, young people and their families.
Phone: 0333 050 7654 Email: info@cclg.org.uk
The Children and Young People's Cancer Association website
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
Last reviewed: 15 Dec 2023
Next review due: 16 Dec 2023
In the UK around 1,838 children (aged 0 - 14 years) get diagnosed with cancer each year. Find out out the most common types.
Coping with cancer can be difficult. There is help and support available. Find out about the emotional, physical and practical effects of cancer and how to manage them.
Here are organisations and websites that help and support children with cancer and their family and friends.
Children’s cancer affects the whole family. It’s a big shock and change for everyone, including your other children. Here are some tips from parents who have experienced children’s cancer.
We have more detailed information on some of the more common types of children's cancer.
Children's cancer is much less common than adult cancer. Get information on the most common types of children's cancers, treatment and support.
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
What to ask your doctor about clinical trials.
Meet and chat to other cancer people affected by cancer.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
