Support for young people
There are a number of organisations that provide information and support for children and young people affected by cancer:
This can include:
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information about the diagnosis and treatment of cancers in children and young people
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support for young cancer patients and their families
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support for young people with a family member or friend who has cancer.
Cancer care for children
Children with cancer need different support than adults with cancer, including:
- age appropriate emotional and social support
- help to meet their developmental milestones
- help to continue their education.
- assessment of the possible effects of cancer treatment on their fertility in the future and possible ways to preserve this.
Children with cancer (0 to 14 years) are treated at specialist paediatric oncology centres. Paediatric oncology is a medical speciality focused on the care of children with cancer. These centres can provide appropriate treatment and support for the child and their family.
There are three dedicated paediatric oncology centres in NSW.
- Cancer Centre for Children, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick
- John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Newcastle
Support for children and families
When a child you care about is told they have cancer, it can be really scary and confusing. But it’s important to know:
- You are not on your own.
- There are people you can talk to.
- Every cancer and every child is different.
- Getting the right information is important.
There are also places you can go to get help and advice or just someone to talk to. It can help to make a list of questions you want to ask.
Organisations that provide information and support for children and their families include:
- Redkite
- Cancer Council
- Camp Quality
- Childhood Cancer Association
Additional support services can be available based on either your location or your child’s cancer type. Chat to the clinical nurse consultant or social worker where you are being seen. They can tell you what services and support groups are available for you and your child.
Other resources we recommend
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Cancer Council Mon-Fri 9am-5pm13 11 20
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Canteen Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat-Sun 11am-6pm1800 835 932
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Kids Helpline Every day 24 hours1800 551 800
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Redkite Mon-Fri 9am-7pm1800 733 548
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Camp Quality Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm1300 662 267