While CCLG works to raise awareness of childhood cancer all year round, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is an internationally recognised month where the whole childhood cancer community can come together, and everyone is encouraged to show their support for the children, young people and families who have been affected by childhood cancer.
This year, we are highlighting the importance of research in creating better futures for children with cancer.
In 1977, when CCLG was first founded, childhood cancer survival rates were around 2 in 10. Fast-forward 47 years to today and survival rates are around 8 in 10. This amazing progress is driven by research.
Research has led not only to more effective treatments, but kinder treatments that have fewer harsh side effects and long-term effects (also known as late effects).
Research is the driving force behind not only improving survival for children with cancer, but also minimising the harsh side effects of treatment through kinder treatments. CCLG is fully committed to developing and enhancing research in the UK.
Prof. Richard Grundy, CCLG Chair
CCLG is at the heart of childhood cancer research. We believe that every child with cancer deserves the best possible levels of care, and we bring together the best and brightest experts to drive forward childhood cancer research. Since 2016, CCLG has funded 204 research projects to a value of almost £30m.
This September, you can learn more about the importance of research in childhood cancer, and you can support CCLG to continue funding vital research, creating a better future for children and young people with cancer.
Read childhood cancer stories
Darcey's story
Darcey was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in November 2022 at just 17 months old. Her mum, Sophie, shares her story.
Aashna's story
Aashna was diagnosed with leukaemia when she was six years old in February 2023. Her mother, Alpana, shares her story.
Samuel's story
Samuel was diagnosed with high-risk medulloblastoma, a childhood brain cancer, in February 2023 when aged five years old.