Why does Rainbow Trust help?

There are an estimated 86,625* children in England with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions. This number has trebled over the last 17 years and is rising. Thousands of families have to face the very real possibility that their child may die and struggle to cope on a day to day basis. Our Family Support Workers provide a lifeline to these families and children.

How does Rainbow Trust help?

When a child has a serious illness, family life is turned upside down and time becomes more precious than ever. Rainbow Trust pairs each family with an expert Family Support Worker who enables them to make the most of time together, giving them practical and emotional support, whenever they need it, for as long as is needed.

We support the whole family including parents, carers, the unwell child, brothers, sisters and grandparents. Support is hugely varied and depends on the needs of the family. It can include:

  • listening to a family’s fears and anxieties
  • helping to explain illnesses, diagnoses and treatments
  • keeping a seriously ill child company during hospital stays
  • driving families to medical appointments to help save time and money
  • organising fun activities to help sick children, their brothers and sisters
  • support through bereavement and grief.

Watch our video to learn more:

How Rainbow Trust helped Bea and her family

Hear from the families we support

  • Ethans_family_story_2023 image

    Ethan's Story

    'I can talk to Michelle about anything, and Katlyn loves her too. Michelle will come over and spend time with Ethan – it’s such a big help.’

    Read more
  • Component_EditorialElement_FinleysStory image

    Finley's Story

    'There’s someone there for you to talk to, who’s willing to help and is just really adaptable. Laura understands what it’s like'

    Read more
  • Component_editorialElement_MyaElasStory image

    Mya Ela's Story

    ‘Jaimie has been my absolute rock to be honest. I would feel so lost without her. She has made such a big difference to our lives.'

    Read more
Read more family stories

See how Rainbow Trust Family Support Workers like Nicki help families make the most of each new day

Donate today image

Donate today

Donation payment types
Donation payment values.

£5 could provide bereavement support to help a family cope with the death of a child.

Find out more about our support

How you can help