Supporting a child through cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, and many families look for gentle ways to bring comfort, calm and emotional support. Complementary therapies can sit alongside your child’s medical care and offer moments of relaxation during an incredibly stressful time. This is also something we may be able to help fund, depending on your child’s needs and circumstances.

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While these therapies do not treat or cure cancer, they can play a valuable role in helping children cope with the side effects of treatment and the emotional strain of a diagnosis.

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If you are considering arranging complementary therapy for your child, please let your medical team know. They may already work with trusted local therapists, and being aware of any additional support your child is receiving helps them monitor wellbeing and recognise any positive changes.

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To apply for support, you can fill in the form at the bottom of this page, or reach out to hello@theisabelbakerfoundation.com for more information.

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How complementary therapies can help

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Complementary therapies can:

• ease some of the side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea, pain and fatigue

• help children soothe themselves and manage the fear and anxiety that often come with a diagnosis

• offer parents and carers a sense of actively supporting their child’s care

• support better sleep

• encourage the release of feel-good hormones, helping children feel calmer and more relaxed

• provide a peaceful space away from the hospital environment and invasive procedures

Many families find that these gentle, supportive therapies make a meaningful difference to their child’s emotional and physical wellbeing throughout treatment.

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Finding a Complementary Therapist

Complementary therapy for children can be harder to access than it is for adults, so it may take a little time to find the right practitioner. There are a few places you can look for support:

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Within NHS hospitals

Some children’s cancer units offer free complementary therapy services through their main treatment centre or shared care centre. Your child’s nurse specialist or keyworker can let you know what is available locally.

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Cancer support centres, hospices and charities

Many hospitals, hospices and community support services hold up-to-date information about local therapists. You can also ask your GP or local voluntary organisations, as some may provide free or low-cost complementary therapy options for families.

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Private therapists

You can search locally for private complementary therapists, though this will usually involve a fee. At The Isabel Baker Foundation, we have a dedicated fund to help cover these costs if this isn’t something you’re able to manage yourself.

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In the UK, complementary therapists are not formally regulated, but the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) holds a voluntary register of practitioners who meet national standards. It’s always wise to check a therapist’s training, experience and background, especially their experience working with children and cancer patients.

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Attending a Complementary Therapy Session

Depending on your child’s age, you or another family member may be able to attend the session with them.

During the first appointment, the therapist will learn more about your child’s diagnosis, symptoms and needs, and discuss which therapies may be most suitable. You may be asked to sign a consent form. Your child’s privacy, dignity and comfort should always be respected throughout the session.

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Types of Complementary and Natural Therapies

Children can experience a wide range of side effects during cancer treatment, including muscle pain, constipation and nerve pain. Because every child’s needs are different, it’s important that any therapist you work with understands childhood cancer treatment and can adapt their approach accordingly.

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Radiotherapy and some chemotherapy drugs can make your child’s skin extremely sensitive. For this reason, it’s usually best to avoid essential oils or perfumed creams and use only plain base oils or the skincare products prescribed by your medical team.

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