Programme Benefits
All our programmes are specially crafted to help each member of the family cope and recover from the devastating affects of a diagnosis of a serious illness within their family unit.
Benefits for Child/Young Adult
In many cases children and teens affected by serious illness have been denied the ordinary experiences of growing-up. The psychosocial support Barretstown offers enables children to make real changes in their lives as they discover greater self-esteem, confidence, independence, trust, friendship and coping skills. Our programmes help them to discover the courage they need to undertake the difficult journey of their illness and its treatment, and to encourage them to take part more actively in their own recovery process.
Benefits for Family
Barretstown provides weekend breaks for families where all day-to-day needs are met, so that they can concentrate on relaxing, having fun and spending time together. The weekend is a chance for families to take part in activities, spend time with their partners and time together as a family in an idyllic setting. Parents can choose to take part in the activities if they wish to do so or just watch their children having fun.
Benefits for Siblings
For many children the trauma of their brother or sister being diagnosed with cancer or another life threatening illness is often the beginning of a very difficult period. As they make new friends who share similar experiences they also share knowledge and compare responses and feelings. Just being listened to, being able to sit and talk, being able to express confusion, anger, sadness, guilt or fear in a safe, accepting, attentive environment is often enough.
