Cancer Research UK logo.
SearchDonate
  • Search

Coping with cancer

Family, friends, carers and cancer

A cancer diagnosis affects family and friends, too. We have tips and ways to support someone with cancer. There are also things you can do to support yourself if someone you love has cancer.

How to support someone with cancer

When you are supporting someone with cancer, it can be hard to know what to say. Listening is just as important as talking.

Taking care of yourself

If you are a carer or supporting someone with cancer, you need to look after yourself too. Caring can be rewarding and challenging. There is help and support available.

Last reviewed: 05 Mar 2024

Next review due: 05 Mar 2027

The Dangoor Education logo.

Dangoor Education

About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education

Patient Information Forum. Trusted Information Creator.
Plain English Campaign award.

Help and Support

An icon of a hand shake.

Find a Clinical Trial

Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.

An icon of two speech bubbles, indicating a conversation.

Cancer Chat forum

Connect with other people affected by cancer and share your experiences.

An icon of a landline phone.

Nurse helpline

Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.