Young people facing a cancer diagnosis are disproportionately impacted by mental health and emotional wellbeing issues. One in four young people aged 13-24 will experience an impact on their mental health in their lifetime. This increases to three in four where the young person has experienced cancer. Anxiety, depression, loneliness panic attacks and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are far too common among teenagers and young adults overcoming the challenges of cancer.

We create opportunities for the young people to “come together”. Friendships and support are fundamental to our wellbeing. And, loneliness affects people of all ages, with younger adults at particular risk. With these activities, they have an opportunity to meet other young people who genuinely understand what it is like to face cancer and the challenges it brings. The most powerful take aways come from the small talk encounters of these events, where they understand they are not alone.