About Leukaemia CARE

When somebody is told they are suffering from leukaemia or other allied blood disorders, their lives are literally shattered. They often feel scared and vulnerable and have many questions that need answering.

At times like this, it is often difficult to speak to family and friends about the illness and the inner fears they may be experiencing. That's where the Leukaemia CARE Society can fulfil a vital role for people at such a distressing time in their lives.

One of Leukaemia CARE's greatest strengths is that it remains a family-focused charity and offers a depth of understanding and support based firmly on knowledge and experience. The charity receives no government funding and relies entirely on voluntary donations to maintain the level of care and support it offers.

This includes the CARE Line - 0800 169 6680 - a dedicated freephone service for sufferers and their carers, Regional CARE Teams who provide local support across the United Kingdom, support groups, information booklets and discretionary holidays and financial assistance.

Its network of volunteers covers England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Many have had to face similar problems themselves or have experience of a loved one being affected. They can therefore genuinely empathise with those who are coming to terms with their diagnosis.

The volunteers give reassurance, support, friendship and offer a 'listening ear' to people faced with a life threatening illness. It can be extremely comforting to talk to someone who has personal knowledge or experience of the illness.

They show the sufferer that they are not alone and help encourage them to have a positive outlook. The Society also gives them access to further individual, local support.

Our history

The Leukaemia CARE Society was originally formed as the Leukaemia Society in 1967 by a small group of parents; some who had children with leukaemia and others whose children had died from the illness.

In 1983, the name was officially changed to the Leukaemia CARE Society and the charity extended membership to embrace adult sufferers.

Over the last 34 years, the Society has grown significantly and has provided care and support to over 10,000 sufferers through a team of volunteers across the United Kingdom, although it has not lost sight of its objectives, which are to promote the welfare of persons suffering from leukaemia and allied blood disorders.