At Cancerhelp we recognise the impact illness or the death of a loved one can have on a child or young person. 

Our STRIDE service provides therapeutic support to children and young people, aged 5 to 19 years of age, who have lost a parent, carer or loved one or who are living with someone who has a cancer diagnosis.  We also provide support to children and young people who have cancer themselves. 

Referrals can be made by parents, carers and young people over the age of 16.  We also welcome schools, CAMHS, Social Care, voluntary and statutory organisations involved in the health and well-being of children and young people to contact us for guidance and support. 

The therapy we offer is tailored to the individual needs and age of each child or young person and may include play, art and creative work to help them express their feelings and emotions. 

At CancerHelp Preston we also provide specialist support and advice to parents, carers, schools and professionals involved in the lives of bereaved children and young people. 

Our children and young people’s service team are all fully qualified and registered Counsellors/Psychotherapists or Art Therapists with  experience of providing therapeutic support to children and young people.

Here’s what some of our service users have said… 

“I’ve learned how to deal with my problems and how to talk about my feelings…It has helped me to understand how to cope without my dad”  A, 14 years. 

“I feel more calm and happy….. I liked that you can talk about any of your problems and you do activities”  B, 12 years 

“Through the past 3 years my late wife, myself and child have always felt supported at CancerHelp.  I am so grateful for all the help, especially through such tough times”. Parent of C,  8 years. 

“O appears more confident and settled in himself…Laughing more…less clingy” . Parent of D, 11 years. 

“I think about my feelings differently since coming here… it was good having someone to talk with about stuff”.    F, 17 years. 

To find out more about the Children and Young People’s services please contact the Team on (01772) 798746.