Helping young people manage anxiety, interrupted life plans, and support them through treatment and recovery
Led by Dr Louise Robinson, Macmillan consultant clinical psychologist, the service provides one-to-one therapy, group sessions, and neurorehabilitation for young people aged 16 to 24. It also supports nurses, doctors, and clinical teams working closely with these patients.
“Receiving a cancer diagnosis at such a formative stage of life can be deeply traumatic,” says Dr Robinson. “Our role is to help young people manage anxiety, cope with interrupted life plans, and support them through treatment and recovery.”
Since launching in late 2022, the service has supported 90 young patients through more than 600 appointments, offering flexible access to in-person, video, or phone sessions. It’s integrated into The Christie’s multidisciplinary team approach, ensuring patients receive holistic care.
This service isn’t just about supporting mental health
Hanna Simpson, TYA directorate lead nurse, said: “This service isn’t just about supporting mental health – it’s about helping young people regain control and rebuild their lives Many face trauma, social isolation and even changes to their identity because of treatment. Our team helps them navigate those challenges with compassion and practical tools.”
Young people with brain tumours often face added complications such as cognitive changes that affect learning and confidence. The psychological team offers assessments, therapy, and family support to help address these effects early and holistically.
The latest contribution from The Peel Group Foundation — a £62,000 donation — is helping this vital service reach more young people at a time when psychological support can make a life-changing difference.
Kate Holland, Trustee of The Peel Group Foundation, said: “The Christie Charity have been a long-standing partner of Peel, and this particular project really resonated with us. It’s hard to imagine the emotional impact of receiving a cancer diagnosis at any time – and especially during the teenage years. The new TYA Psychological Service provided by The Christie, is already making a meaningful different in the lives of young people, offering specialist support at a time when they need it most. We hope this partnership will help expand access to the psychological care that so many young people need. Christie’s commitment to research, medical care and personalised services is truly vital – and we are grateful to be able to support their work.”
Marie Toller, Head of Philanthropy at The Christie Charity, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to The Peel Group Foundation for its support of this new service. Their contribution help us deliver expert psychological care at the right moment, giving young patients like Demisha a better chance to heal and move forward.”
It’s made a real difference to how I feel day to day
Following successful treatment, Demisha has returned to work at a local primary school.
“Since I stopped treatment, I’ve put into practice a lot of what Louise taught me. It’s made a real difference to how I feel day to day.”
In addition to frontline care, the service contributes to research, with many patients involved in clinical trials – particularly in brain tumour studies – to help improve outcomes across the UK.
Other funders supporting the TYA psychological service include The Zochonis Charitable Trust, Dr Scholl Foundation, St James’s Place Foundation, and Pageant Girl Ltd.
To support The Christie Charity, please visit christie.nhs.uk/donate or call 0161 446 3988.
The Christie Charity funds enhanced services at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, including research, specialist care, education and patient support that goes beyond NHS provision.
