Buddy Up (Teen Support Group)
Supporting teenagers through connection and friendship
Teenagers facing cancer often feel isolated from friends, school and normal teenage life. They may be the only young person they know going through treatment, which can make the journey even more challenging.
Buddy Up is our monthly social group designed specifically for teenagers living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis. It’s a space where teens can connect, laugh, talk and support each other without judgement, pressure or explanation.
What Buddy Up Offers
Buddy Up gives teens the chance to:
- meet other young people their age with similar experiences
- talk openly about treatment, school, friendships, emotions and the future
- take part in fun social activities
- build confidence and independence
- form friendships that last beyond the meet-ups
Many families say these events are a highlight of their year.
More Than Once a Month
While the group meets monthly, one of our key aims is to help these young people form lasting friendships.
We encourage young people to:
- swap numbers
- stay in contact between sessions
- support each other by phone, messaging or social media
This ongoing connection helps teenagers feel less alone throughout the month not just during group time.
Who Buddy Up Is For
Buddy Up is open to any young person aged 13–18 who has:
- a current cancer diagnosis
- completed treatment
- ongoing or late effects
- or is navigating life after cancer
What Happens at Buddy Up?
Each session is relaxed and shaped around the teens themselves. Typical activities may include:
- games or group activities
- space to talk or ask questions
- creative or wellbeing activities
- opportunities to plan future sessions
But the focus is always on connection, friendship and having a place to belong.
Latest Events
Join Buddy Up
If you know a teenager who would benefit from meeting other young adults, we’d love to welcome them.
How we help
We are here to help children and their families through childhood cancer with our six pillars of support. Find out how we can help and support your family below.
