Skip the primary navigation if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Skip the main content if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Skip the location trail if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Location trail
Home > About childhood cancer > For parents >You may still be feeling shocked and numb about what has happened. But there are one or two practicalities that you’ll need to think about in the days and weeks ahead.
Accommodation
Most children’s and young people’s wards have space for one parent or carer to stay while their child is having treatment. Some have rooms where other family members can stay too. Most hospitals have laundry facilities where you can wash clothes. The hospital may have other self-catering accommodation, though you may have to pay for this and it may not always be available.
Some of the children’s cancer centres have a CLIC Sargent Home from Home nearby. These offer free self-catering accommodation where families can stay while their child is having treatment. Siblings are welcome and if they are well enough, your child can stay too.
Travel
Travel to and from your child’s hospital - whether by car or public transport - can be expensive. If you are on a low income and receiving benefits, the hospital may reimburse part or all of your travel costs. Free hospital transport may be available too.
Check with your child’s consultant or specialist nurse to confirm whether it’s okay OK for your child to travel by public transport.
top of page
Useful travel websites:
- For local public transport information in England, Scotland and Wales visit www.traveline.info
- For public transport information in Northern Ireland go to www.translink.co.uk
- For train times and information in England, Scotland and Wales go to www.nationalrail.co.uk
- To plan a journey in England, Scotland or Wales see www.transportdirect.info
Parking
The cost and availability of parking varies from hospital to hospital. Check the hospital’s website for details. You may be able to buy a weekly, monthly or even annual parking permit that works out cheaper. Ask your social worker if this is available at your child’s hospital. A Disabled Car Badge (blue badge) can also help with parking costs. Your local authority may issue one if your child has mobility problems.
What you’ll need in hospital
Here are some of the items you’ll need to bring from home:
- Phone charger
- Toiletries
- Books and magazines
- Clothes for you and your child
- Pyjamas, slippers and dressing gown
- Brush or comb
- Diary or organiser
- Pen
- Child’s favourite toys and games
- Washing powder or liquid
Many parents have told us they found it useful to have a packed bag by the door or in the boot of the car, for unexpected trips to hospital.
Childcare
If you have other children who will need looking after while you are at the hospital and finding consistent childcare is a problem, talk to your social worker who may be able to help. If your partner is an employee, they may be entitled to time off for dependants in order to organise emergency childcare.
You’ll find details of all UK hospitals that treat children with cancer, here.
top of page