Childcare

Whether you look after your children full time, or work full or part time, you may find that your normal routine is disrupted and your childcare needs change as a result of your diagnosis of breast cancer.

Side effects of treatment can affect how much you are able to do. Extreme tiredness, or fatigue, is a common side effect which can last for several months or longer. It is important not to feel that you have to cope with fatigue and carry on looking after your children without any extra support.

Try not to feel guilty if you are finding it hard to organise your childcare. Although it isn’t always easy asking for help, involving other people can take some of the pressure off you, not only giving you time to rest but also making the time you spend with your children enjoyable and less stressful.

Family, friends and neighbours are the main source of support. Other people you know, such as parents at the same nursery or school as your children, may also be willing to help. Remember that most people are happy to be asked. In fact, they may already want to offer their support but are worried about interfering or offending you.

If you are in work, you may be able to get help towards childcare costs through Working Tax Credit. This is a means-tested benefit for people on low incomes (although you can also claim if you are off work due to illness) and can cover up to 80 per cent of your childcare costs – subject to a maximum limit.

You may also decide to look into more formal childcare arrangements such as nurseries or crèches; playgroups, after-school clubs and play schemes; childminders or nannies. Voluntary organisations – such as Home-Start UK and Crossroads Care –  may also be able to help with childcare.

For more information, including contact details for the organisations mentioned above, download or order our Breast cancer and childcare booklet from the box on the right of this page.