The Hargreaves Foundation supports University Hospitals Birmingham Charity

The trustees of the Hargreaves Foundation are pleased to announce that funding has been awarded to University Hospitals Birmingham Charity, which supports patients, families and NHS staff across the Queen Elizabeth, Heartlands, Good Hope and Solihull hospitals. The charity funds specialist equipment, pioneering research and enhanced facilities that go beyond what the NHS can provide, improving experiences and outcomes for patients from across the UK.

A cancer diagnosis in childhood or adolescence is devastating for the patient and their family. Treatment is often lengthy and isolating, taking young people away from school, friends and the normal experiences of growing up. Without the right support, many fall behind in their education, experience anxiety or depression, and struggle to reintegrate once treatment ends. The Young Persons Cancer Unit treats over 500 young people each year, from across England, Wales and the Channel Islands.

With funding from the Hargreaves Foundation, the charity will enhance the support available to adolescents and young adults undergoing cancer treatment. A specialist teacher will help patients keep up with school or college work during treatment, reducing disruption and isolation. Structured wellbeing services, including one-to-one mentoring, resilience workshops and creative activities, will support emotional health and help young people build friendships with others in similar situations. Training for staff and volunteers in safeguarding and mental health awareness will ensure that services continue to meet the changing needs of young patients.