In the years since Candlelighters was formed, survival rates for children with cancer have greatly improved. But so far, little has been done to improve the experience of living through and beyond cancer. The side effects of treatment can be traumatic, permanent, and even deadly, not to mention the practical and emotional tolls families face. …

In October, we were overjoyed when we were chosen as children’s charity of the year at the Yorkshire Children of Courage Awards! The awards began in 2011 to recognise the region’s bravest and most courageous children and young adults as well as the charities that support them. For almost 50 years, Candlelighters has supported children and families across Yorkshire through childhood cancer. From the hospital wards, to …

Last week was Play in Healthcare Week! This is an awareness week showcasing the importance of providing play to children in hospitals. Our Outreach Play Specialists, Tracy and Rachel can continue this therapeutic play for children diagnosed with cancer within their own homes. Tracy says, “I feel very privileged to work with children, young people …

We’re delighted to announce we’ve been shortlisted for the Community Impact Award at this year’s Connect Yorkshire Awards. Plus, our CEO Emily has also been individually recognised in the Inspirational Leader category! The Connect Yorkshire Business Awards take place annually and exist to recognise and celebrate the exceptional contribution made by businesses and non-profit organisations …

As a charity, we’re proud to be trailblazers in pushing for and funding new and better ways to make lives better for children with cancer. We’re especially proud of the commitment we’ve given to funding play for children. For over 25 years, we’ve funded additional play team roles in the children’s oncology department at Leeds …

For Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this year, we want to highlight the difficulties faced by children who receive their treatment as an outpatient and their families. Whilst some children have to be hospitalised for much of their treatment, there are others who are able to return home and come back into hospital regularly for treatment. …

Children’s cancer charity Candlelighters hosted a weekend of fun and respite at Lineham Farm for 34 children whose siblings face a cancer diagnosis. Around 150 children in Yorkshire are diagnosed with cancer every year. A childhood cancer diagnosis devastates the entire family. It can be especially difficult for siblings to process the emotional difficulty that a cancer diagnosis causes, …

We’re delighted that two of our fundraising groups will be hosting fabulous fundraising balls this August. Ilkley Candlelighters and Knaresborough Candlelighters would like to invite you to their summer balls to help raise vital funds for children and young people with cancer. Find out the details below… Ilkley Candlelighters Dance the night away and raise …

Candlelighters have been trialling opening our family support centre, The Square, on Saturdays to increase access to our support for our families. On Saturdays at The Square, Lucy Peel and Jess Burton, two of our Family Support Workers have provided wonderful crafts, fun activities, and food offerings. Our Sarnies and Smoothies on a Saturday have …