When a friend is diagnosed with cancer, it can be incredibly difficult to make sense of the events and emotions that may quickly follow. At Team Jak, we know this from first-hand experience: after Jak passed away, his friends told us how hard it was for them to cope with the loss and unanswered questions.
That’s why we offer dedicated support to children and young people when they’re alongside a friend navigating cancer treatment or grieving after a loss. We help friends feel seen and — through emotional support, creative outlets, and safe spaces to talk — help them recognise they are not alone.
Looking for support for your child, family, or want to refer someone you know? Please get in touch today.
Emotional Support: We can offer group and one-to-one emotional support for children and young people who may be struggling with a friend’s diagnosis. This can take the form of talking sessions, or therapeutic support such as music therapy and creative activities, depending on the individual’s age and needs.
Our Seasons for Growth programme is available for children and teens grieving the death of a friend, helping them understand their feelings and develop tools to live with their loss. Friends can also take part in memorial activities alongside families such as sharing messages on our Angel Tree and taking part in remembrance events.
School-Based Support: Many young people experience their friend’s cancer journey or death from within a school setting. We work with teaching and pastoral teams to offer sensitive support in schools, including Bag of Worries and Bag of Rainbows sessions, classroom visits, and workshops to help young people process what’s happening.
We’re also available to support classmates at especially challenging moments, such as relapse or bereavement, through discussion groups, special assemblies, or behind-the-scenes guidance for staff.
A Place to Talk: Whether it’s been a while or the news is still fresh, we know some friends just need space to talk, without judgment or pressure. Our team is here to listen and guide young people through these often overwhelming experiences, helping them feel less alone, understood, and more confident in their feelings.
We provide emotional, social and practical support to children & young people with cancer, their families, friends and those bereaved
