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The summer holidays are in full swing here at the Trust, and it has been wonderful to see so many children and young people joining us for our weekly group sessions throughout the school holidays.
Over the summer, more than 30 children and young people from across North Wales have accessed our sessions, giving them the opportunity to meet others who understand what it is like to have a parent living with cancer, while enjoying time together away from the worries that cancer can bring.
We have packed our summer programme with a wide range of activities, including:
- Memory box making
- Toy Story-themed crafts
- A visit to SC2 for Ninja Tag and soft play
- LEGO building sessions
- Bracelet and headband making
- A trip to the SC2 Waterpark, including a special visit from our mascot, Ozzy
- An escape room experience for our young people
- And finally, a garden party to bring our summer programme to a close
Most of our sessions take place at Maggie’s North Wales, with some activities taking place at other venues when we have special outings or activities planned.
Making memories and connections
Our group sessions are about much more than keeping children and young people entertained during the school holidays.
They provide a safe and supportive environment where children can spend time with others who are experiencing something similar. They can make friends, talk if they want to, have fun and simply enjoy being themselves.
For families affected by cancer, having opportunities like these can be incredibly valuable. Children can often feel overlooked when a parent is diagnosed with cancer, so our sessions give them dedicated time, attention and support.
Looking ahead
Although our summer programme has now come to an end, our planning is already well underway for the rest of the year.
We are preparing an exciting spooky-themed programme for October half term, followed by our Christmas activities.
This year will also see our first-ever Trust Christmas Party, along with a visit to a pantomime and, if everything comes together, a possible activity-filled Christmas week.
We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings!
Could your child access our sessions?
If you are currently undergoing cancer treatment and have children aged 18 or under living with you, your children may be able to access our group sessions and the wider support we provide.
Alongside our group activities, families can also access our support packs and local respite activities, designed to provide practical and emotional support to children and young people affected by a parent’s cancer diagnosis.
If you would like your children to access our support, you can download a referral form from our website.
Please ensure that page 2 is completed by a professional involved in your diagnosis and treatment, such as a member of your healthcare team.
Once we receive the completed referral, we can get in touch with you to discuss the support available.
We are incredibly proud of the summer we have shared with the children and young people who have joined us, and we look forward to continuing to provide opportunities, support and memorable experiences for families across North Wales.
