How we can help
Our criteria
SeeSaw offers support for children and families where a parent, carer or sibling has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. We support families with children up to the age of 18 and can offer direct support to children and young people aged 5–18.
If the person who is ill is a grandparent or another family member without a caring role, we can offer advice, information and resources to help support the family.
Families can request support directly or ask a member of the palliative care team to make a referral on their behalf. Young people can also refer themselves for support.
When someone is diagnosed with a terminal illness
We support parents and carers to talk with children and young people about serious illness and treatment. We help families develop practical strategies for managing the changes that illness and treatment can bring, while considering the impact these may have on children and young people.
With consent, we may also work with schools and other professionals involved with a family to help them better understand the challenges being faced and how they can offer support.
When someone reaches end of life
We work alongside families as illness progresses towards end of life. We support parents and carers to begin open and honest conversations about death and dying, helping children and young people understand what is happening and prepare for an expected bereavement.
After someone dies
Our support continues after a death, helping families adjust to their loss and begin to shape their ‘new normal’ as life continues. We can support families as they prepare for funerals and goodbye rituals and help adults understand the wide range of grief responses children and young people may experience in the early days of bereavement.
One-to-one support
In some circumstances, we may work directly with children and young people to help them:
- explore their questions, feelings and wishes
- better understand the impact of illness within the family
- talk with parents, teachers and friends
- develop healthy coping strategies
We work closely with parents, carers and professionals to ensure children and young people receive the right support, from the right person, at the right time.
