Every year, another 23,000 young people have to face the challenge of cancer. When cancer crashes into a young person’s family, we’re here to help.

Canteen is Australia’s leading youth cancer charity providing evidence-based support to young people and families impacted by cancer. Canteen is the only organisation in Australia dedicated to providing tailored support for young people impacted by cancer.

Canteen helps young people aged 12-25 find the emotional strength they need to deal with cancer. Through Canteen, they can connect with other young people who really get what they’re going through as well as specialist staff who help them develop coping skills and resilience that will last them a lifetime. Canteen also ensures that young cancer patients receive the best and newest treatment options available right across the country.

Our services also now extend to parents, because when they cope better with cancer and communicate openly, their children are likely to experience less distress and anxiety.

Youth leadership is part of our DNA. Canteen was set up by a group of young cancer patients in 1985 and young people still guide the organisation at every level. In fact, more than half of Canteen’s Board of Directors are young people impacted by cancer.

Who this service is for

Cancer changes everything. We get it.

Young people often feel disconnected from their friends, isolated and alone. They are up to six times more likely to be at high risk of developing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Whether they are dealing with their own diagnosis, a close family member’s cancer or the loss of a loved one, Canteen provides:

* Connection with other young people in similar situations through events and programs

* Free counselling and individual support

* 24/7 online support communities for young people and parents

* Specialist treatment and support services for young cancer patients in hospital and then our teams help them with getting back on their feet

Cost

Free

How this service is delivered

• Call or visit us online

  Call us on 1800 226 833 or visit us online at https://www.canteen.org.au/contact-us

  Chat with people who get you. Get time out at our fun events. Talk to a counsellor (it’s free!) via https://canteenconnect.org

  Get free expert advice, counselling and the chance to connect with other parents in similar situations via https://parentingthroughcancer.org.au/

  Postal Address: GPO Box 128, nipaluna / Hobart, TAS 7001