Children’s Brain Tumour Charity Launches New Support Service in Thames Valley

A charity dedicated to children’s brain tumours has inaugurated a new clinical psychology service for young individuals in the Thames Valley. Tom’s Trust will deliver mental health assistance to patients confronting a brain tumour diagnosis and their families at the John Radcliffe Children’s Hospital in Oxford. The organization anticipates providing an additional 300 appointments annually. Dr. Jeni Tregay, from Oxford University Hospitals (OUH), commented that the service would enhance “both the depth and breadth of psychological care that patients and their families receive.” The paediatric neuro-oncology service at the Children’s Hospital serves as the primary treatment facility for the Thames Valley, encompassing Swindon, Milton Keynes, Slough, Wycombe, Reading, and certain areas of Northamptonshire. Tom’s Trust indicated that approximately 30 to 40 children and young people in the region are diagnosed with brain tumours each year. Chief executive Rebecca Wood expressed that the team was “proud” to assist more families. She stated: “We are fundraising hard to develop and sustain this brilliant new service as well as to allow us to plan our next two services to help families in other parts of the UK.” The charity described brain tumours as “emotionally, physically, and mentally devastating” and noted that many children experience “serious mental health issues” such as PTSD and depression. It further added that early intervention “can reduce the likelihood of long-term disabilities.” The annual cost for the trust to support one child and their family is £3,335. Dr. Tregay, a paediatric clinical neuropsychologist, highlighted “a high level of unmet need that extends beyond active treatment.” She conveyed that the trust was “very grateful” for the establishment of a fully funded Tom’s Trust clinical psychologist post “so that we can begin to change this.” “With the [new service], we will be able to increase both the depth and breadth of psychological care that patients and their families receive,” she additionally remarked. You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.