Waiting times cut for support for children with brain tumours

The clinical psychology team at Tom's Trust

A charity which helps families after their child is diagnosed with a brain tumour has helped reduce waiting times within a year of launching a new service.

Tom's Trust funds three clinical psychologists at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, and says it has brought the average wait for support from six months to within two weeks.

Approximately 43 children and young people are diagnosed with brain and spinal tumours at Alder Hey each year, according to the charity.

Dr Meghan Owens, a clinical psychologist, said the hospital could now offer "sibling support" thanks to the progress made.

The charity said it had helped reduce consultation waiting times to just two weeks

She said: "The work of Tom’s Trust makes a huge difference.

"We work with families at all different stages - some may be at the point of diagnosis, some will be struggling with the impact of treatment, and some will be facing challenges getting back to school and daily life.

"A cancer diagnosis doesn’t just affect the child, it is everyone around the child – family, school, extended family, friends.

"If you are left to navigate this alone, outcomes for families would be very different. If a parent is struggling, they are not at full capacity to support their child."

Tom's Trust celebrated their anniversary at the hospital on 19 June, with an event for families, children and staff.

Rebecca Wood, Tom’s Trust CEO, said she was proud to be able to help families across the North West.