Need Support?

At Chester’s Chance, we understand that a childhood cancer diagnosis affects the  whole family. Alongside the emotional impact, many families experience unexpected financial hardship due to hospital stays, travel, reduced income and additional everyday costs.

Our Family Support Grant exists to ease some of that burden, allowing families to focus on what matters most –  spending precious time together and supporting their child.

Every application is considered with compassion, dignity and fairness.

Who Can Apply?

Families may apply if:

•⁠  ⁠They have a child (0–21 years) diagnosed with cancer or another serious life-limiting illness and are currently, or have been inpatients of The Haematology Ward (Or PICU) in The Royal Victoria Hospital for Sick Children.
•⁠  ⁠They are experiencing financial hardship.
•⁠  ⁠They live within your chosen geographical area (or UK-wide if applicable).
•⁠  ⁠They have not received a grant from Chester’s Chance within the previous 12 months

(unless exceptional circumstances apply).

What We Can Help With

Household Essentials
•⁠  ⁠Food shopping
•⁠  ⁠Utility bills
•⁠  ⁠Heating oil
•⁠  ⁠Essential household items

Hospital Costs
•⁠  ⁠Petrol
•⁠  ⁠Parking
•⁠  ⁠Public transport
•⁠  ⁠Overnight accommodation
•⁠  ⁠Meals during admissions

Children’s Wellbeing
•⁠  ⁠Clothing
•⁠  ⁠Toys
•⁠  ⁠Tablets
•⁠  ⁠Hospital entertainment
•⁠  ⁠Comfort items

Siblings
•⁠  ⁠School uniform
•⁠  ⁠School trips
•⁠  ⁠Birthday gifts
•⁠  ⁠Activity vouchers

Creating Memories
•⁠  ⁠Family day trips
•⁠  ⁠Short breaks
•⁠  ⁠Professional family photographs
•⁠  ⁠Memory making activities

Signposting
If Chester’s Chance is unable to fully meet a family’s needs, we can guide you towards other charities and support services, including:
•⁠  ⁠Childrens Cancer Fund
•⁠  ⁠The Childrens Cancer Unit Charity
•⁠  ⁠Together for Short Lives
•⁠  ⁠Memory making activities

Other Exceptional Circumstances. Each request is considered individually.

To apply for The Family Support Grant, please email us: admin@chesterschance.com to obtain an application form.