Combating loneliness in Teenagers with Cancer

In early December, we met with 15 young people under the age of 18 for our now annual and much anticipated trip to Winter Wonderland– it’s described as The world's best destination for festive fun, in the heart of London – and that’s certainly what we were hoping for. The venue was perfect for meeting new people, catching up with old friends, and socialising as we enjoyed the festive fayre and festive fun.

First, was a chance to get to know one another over a hot chocolate and a Christmas-themed game of 'Who am I?'. There were lots of laughs and it was the perfect opportunity to find out a little more about one another, and test everyone’s Christmas knowledge! 

We then headed to the Cirque Beserk show where we had a chance to watch some unbelievable talent from tightrope walkers to motorcycle stunts. It was a truly incredible show! 

Finally, some of the group braved the monkey swings, getting a beautiful view of London's Christmas lights (for whoever was brave enough to open their eyes!). 

The young people then wandered through the many stalls, took part in the activities and revelled in the skills of the entertainers. Walking around the stalls gave another opportunity to get to know each other and build networks.

Feedback from the young people who attended the event shows that 100% felt more connected, 100% felt less isolated and lonely and 100% would recommend our activities to another young person.

Joining us for this magical Christmas event, the young people were able to meetothers who genuinely get what they're going through, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness and enjoy a new experience with the friends they’ve made. To everyone who has supported our project, a huge thank you.

Through the covid-19 restrictions, the young people we support told us that isolation was their norm way before it became ours, and our digital activities were a lifeline for them as they were able to connect with other young people safely and wherever they were on their cancer journey or wherever they were geographically.

Delivering digitally is now firmly embedded in our five-year strategy, and while we are now able to meet in-person regularly, the digital deliveries remain a lifeline for those young people too unwell to attend or too far away to make a return journey comfortably in one day.

In the last quarter, we have delivered quizzes, virtual games and online arts and craft activities. All designed to support the young people in their recovery – supporting them with the physical challenges they face, the impacts of their diagnosis and treatment on their mental health and emotional wellbeing and connecting them with other young people who genuinely get what they’re going through.

We have met up online for cupcake decorating, oil pastel sessions, to do some upcycling of denim to make keyrings and some cartoon drawing sessions.  The benefits of these sessions are a real opportunity to express yourself, relieving stress, anger, and sadness.  

The creative process is recognised to help the young people cope with symptoms, and the traumatic experience they have been through – it enhances their cognitive abilities, improves motor skills, enhances brain function, reduces, anxiety and tension.  The activities allow them to focus on one thing for a while – not their illness or treatment.  They have a real sense of achievement, improving their confidence and self-esteem.

The young people have also taken part in digital games and a virtual escape room - where the challenge is good for their health.  Not only do they improve their memory and their problem-solving skills, but they also improve their communication and time management skills as they work together for their freedom!  Again, these kinds of games are great stress relievers for the young people and a great way for them to be social.

To all our funders whose support this quarter has enabled these digital deliveries, we thank you for helping us to ensure that young people overcoming the challenges of cancer, no matter where they are, can meet other young people and be part of a very special community united in a common experience.