Terminal illness advice for families and carers

Help, advice and useful information for families and carers of someone with a terminal illness, including how to cope as a carer and what it's like, supporting a child when someone is dying and telling a child about someone's terminal diagnosis.

 

What is it like to be a carer?

You may not think about yourself as a carer, but if you’re looking after a person who can’t manage without your help, then you are a carer. We have advice about what support is available to you, your relationship with the person you care for and addressing aspects of care you're struggling with.

Coping as a carer

Sometimes caring can feel overwhelming, and people often say that they feel guilty making time for their own needs, but looking after yourself is the best way to ensure that you can be there to provide the care and support you want to for your friend or relative.

Help and support for carers

You don’t have to do it all yourself, but it can be hard to know what support is available and how to get it. We explain the different kinds of support for carers and what your options are if you need to give up work to become a full-time carer.

Telling a child a loved one is dying

Only you know when the time is right and the best way to tell your child that someone they love is dying. This can be incredibly hard, but there are some approaches that can help you when telling a child that a loved one has a terminal illness.

Supporting a child with their grief

In this section, you'll find information about how to support a child after a bereavement. From advice about what to say or do to more practical tips for the funeral, we're here to help you both during this difficult time.

Supporting someone who is dying

It can be hard to know how best to support someone who is dying. But we have advice to help you support a family member or friend who is terminally ill, even in their final days or hours.

Find advice and support