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Practical Support


Do you need help completing forms, not sure what services, benefits are available, uncertain where to turn?


We will always endevour to support families and children through their challenging times.

When you discover that your child has a life threatening or terminal illness your whole world may feel like it’s falling apart. We are here to help. We will support the whole family, including siblings and grandparents, both emotionally and practically.


You can contact a dedicated family support officer by calling 0330 1330 870

Available 7 days a week:

Monday - Friday  8.00am - 5.30pm

Saturday - Sunday  8.00am - 12.00 pm


Out of Hours Emergency Contact (24hrs) 07725 099 584


Alternatively, you can email using any of the following email addresses:


General Support: support@makethemsmile.org.uk


Family Support / Welfare / Respite
Paul Flatley: paul@makethemsmile.org.uk

Family Support / Welfare / Respite & Holidays
Dawn Stirk: dawn@makethemsmile.org.uk

Emotional Support / Bereavement
Kelly McWilliams: kelly@makethemsmile.org.uk

Emotional Support / Bereavement
Karen Robeson: karen@makethemsmile.org.uk


Our family support officers will offer advice on any queries you may have, and should we not have the answers you require, we will research and contact the relevant bodies on your behalf.

We are not trained social workers but should you feel the need to talk to a friendly voice please do not hesitate to call us.

We are always here to help and any information you tell us will be treated with the strictest confidence.


Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund

We are proud to announce that our Welfare and Bereavement Support Project has been generously funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.The funding will cover;

Karen, Bereavement OfficerPaul, Support & Welfare Officer

Deanne, Support & Welfare Officer

Thanks to National Lottery players, we are able to:

Provide families with personalised guidance and crisis support

Assist with small grants for essentials, travel for hospital appointments, and benefit access

Organise community activities that reduce isolation and foster connection

Help families navigate the challenges of rising living costs and complex care needs.


Thank you to

The National Lottery Community Fund and all National Lottery players

for making this possible