Support groups
Often the family of a life limited or life threatened child or young person may feel they are facing seemingly impossible challenges alone. We provide a mix of family support groups which meet regularly so people can take part in a variety of activities, helping them to express their feelings, build friendships with others in similar situations and reduce isolation.
All of our support groups are supported by our volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, please get in touch.
We run support groups for:
- Siblings
- Parents and carers
- Mums
- Dads
- Grandparents
- Men
- Bereaved parents and carers
- Oncology
“Seeing mothers in the same boat as myself – and some in a worse situation – gave me the courage to fight on. Here in this group, I didn’t have to act strong if I didn’t want to. Listening to these mothers talking, laughing, crying, complaining, all at the same time, made me realise I was not the only one suffering. We could tell each other what was in our hearts without worrying that we would hurt anyone in the process.”
– Acorns mum
Under 5s Stay and Play
Our under 5s stay and play is run by our staff and volunteers and is open to all children who use Acorns, and their siblings below the age of 5.
This is a relaxed and friendly group whose aim is to provide an opportunity for parents/carers to meet other families and chat and for children to enjoy some fun activities, including:
- Stories
- Music
- Sensory activities
- Baby massage
There is a different theme for every month, such as music, crafts, the garden and autumn and the harvest.
Grandparents group
This group is for bereaved and non-bereaved grandparents who meet throughout the year to share thoughts and feelings. The sessions are usually activity-based and there is plenty of time for talking with tea and cakes provided. If you are interested in joining please contact your Family Practitioner.
“When we first joined [the grandparents group], we were put at ease straight away with the help of Acorns staff. The way they talk to you and their response is tremendous; it helps us with what we go through. You can talk to other grandparents in the same situation as yourself, it’s a great help to talk things over.”
– Acorns grandfather
Siblings support groups
We offer support for both individuals and groups of siblings of children in the care of Acorns in a variety of ways.
Find out more about Acorns sibling support.
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