New cancer support scheme launched

Monday 13 November 2023

The Guernsey and Alderney Youth Commission has been busy working on a new scheme to support young people affected by cancer within their families.

Following a successful launch in the summer, and in partnership with Bulstrode Oncology Unit, the Navigators is aimed at families with children under the age of 18, in which a parent or primary carer has been diagnosed with cancer.

It gives both children, young people and adults, a safe and confidential space to share their experiences, if they wish to, and to meet other families who are also living with cancer.

The next event is being held one week today, Sunday 26 November between 14:00 and 16:30 at St Martin’s Community Centre.

The message is that anyone who feels their family may benefit from attending Navigators should get in touch with the Youth Commission on 724421, or by email to referrals@youthcommission.gg.

CEO of the Youth Commission, Lou Leale said the whole family is welcome to attend and everyone will have a chance to take part in activities and games together, before the group splits for specific activities aimed at the adults and the children and young people.

“Navigators will provide support to families helping them to navigate an emotional and sensitive journey. This is a matter which is close to my own heart, and I know will be a great source of advice, support and comfort.”

Hannah Robilliard, from the Youth Commission, added: “This event is a wonderful collaboration between health services and the Youth Commission to support families with a cancer diagnosis. Parents, carers and young people from the last event gave feedback that they had found it helpful, informative, fun and an opportunity to connect with others in a similar situation.”

Pictured: The Youth Commission's Navigators event includes activities for children and adults.

The Youth Commission uses specialist kits, created by the Fruitfly Collective, when supporting families affected by cancer.

The kits contain activities which families can explore together.

As part of next weekend's event, any adults attending will have the chance to familiarise themselves with the kits and take them home to look at with their children.

Meanwhile, the children and young people will be able to take part in fun and creative activities and games based around managing their emotions and building a better understanding of cancer.

Nurses from Bulstrode House will be there too, with various pieces of equipment used when treating people with cancer for the children to explore and will also be available to answer any questions they may have.