What do Rainbow Trust Family Support Workers do?

When time is limited by a serious illness, time becomes more precious than ever. ​Rainbow Trust pairs each family with a dedicated Family Support Worker to help them face and make the most of each new day.


Family Support Worker support is tailored to the unique needs of each family, but here are some of the key areas that their support focuses on.

Emotional support

Rainbow Trust Family Support Workers understand the immense emotional strain a serious child illness can place on a family. The emotional support they provide ensures families have a network of care to lean on. This can could be listening to a parent’s fears or worries, helping to explain illnesses, diagnoses and treatments or signposting families for further support.

Practical support

Our Family Support Workers provide practical support to families caring for a seriously ill child. This can include anything from helping with errands and household chores, to picking up siblings from school and bringing them home. By easing the burden of everyday tasks, Family Support Workers give families more time and energy to focus on their child and create precious memories together.

Transport support

Having a seriously ill child can mean often travelling to and from medical appointments, clinics, or even specialist consultations. Rainbow Trust Family Support Workers recognise the logistical difficulties families with a seriously ill child can face. Transport support can alleviate just a small amount of stress from a family’s situation, knowing they have friendly and reliable means of transport for vital appointments.

Bereavement support

Where other support systems fall away after the death of a child, Rainbow Trust Family Support Workers support families from diagnosis to bereavement and beyond. Family Support Workers can help families navigate practical matters like funeral arrangements and paperwork. More importantly, they provide emotional support, allowing families to express their grief and work through the complex emotions that arise. This support extends to siblings as well, helping them cope with their loss in a way that feels safe and supported.

Sibling support

Rainbow Trust Family Support Workers recognise the unique challenges faced by the siblings of seriously ill children. They offer dedicated support to these brothers and sisters, providing one-on-one time for fun activities or simply to talk about their worries. Family Support Workers can also connect siblings with group activities where they can meet others in similar situations and build a network of understanding. This support helps siblings feel less alone, navigate complex emotions, and maintain a sense of normalcy in their lives.

Ellen quote image

The support I provide to families doesn't only help seriously ill children, it has a positive impact on their siblings and parents too. I find it really rewarding to know that the work I do helps to make difficult situations families are going through that little bit easier and I always look forward to the smiles I see on children's faces when I arrive to play with them.

Ellen, Family Support Worker in the South West Team

Become a Family Support Worker

If you're looking for a meaningful career where you can make a real difference in the lives of others, becoming a Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker could be perfect for you. Being a Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker gives individuals the unique opportunity to impact the day-to-day lives of families with a seriously ill child. The role is extremely varied - no two days ever look the same! You can read more about what our Family Support Workers get up to on our 'Meet our Family Support Workers' page.

Becoming a Family Support Worker offers the chance to build trusting relationships with families during a difficult time, helping them navigate the challenges they face and create precious memories together. Rainbow Trust also invests in their staff, providing comprehensive training and a supportive work environment.

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