Children and young people may need some support when an adult in their lives is living with a life-limiting condition.

Whether it be a parent living with a life-limiting illness, or a grandparent facing dementia; we can offer support to children and young people aged between 8 and 17 years old, through diagnosis and into bereavement. Guidance for children aged 5-8 can still be sought from our team.

Some children and young people may not find it easy to talk, our specialist counselling room and experienced practitioners provide children with activities, games, crafts and play, to encourage them to explore their feelings, experiences and future in a safe, child-friendly way.

Update on our children and young people’s services

We have taken the time to review the capacity and demand for our services for children and young people. From this review, we’ve made some important changes so that we can support more young people in a positive way.

We are expanding our group offer, as we know how valuable connecting with others of the same age can be. Whilst we focus on this expansion we are pausing new referrals for individual sessions. In the meantime, we will gather feedback to understand the need of children and young people, and monitor engagement with the Family Support service to inform further funding and partnerships in the offer of one-to-one work if required.

All one-to-one referrals made before 30th September will still be honoured. Our aim is to offer first appointments for these children and young people by the end of 2025. We will be offering two group programmes, each lasting six weeks.

All children and young people on our waiting list at present have been invited to groups sessions running throughout November and December.

Sunflowers is currently under way – Ages 8–13

Willows – Ages 14–17 is due to begin on 17th November, with spaces still remaining.

We believe this change will help young people connect with others, share experiences, and feel supported while we explore the best way to grow our services in the future.

To find out more about our services for children and young people, please call the Family Support team on 0161 669 4851 or email familysupport@willowwood.org.uk

Our Bereavement Support Hub can also help support children and young people, along with their parent, carer or guardian. Click here to find out more.