Statement from Solving Kids’ Cancer UK following recent media coverage

We recognise that the recent BBC documentary series The Mother of All Cons explores deeply distressing and complex issues involving a young person, her family, and a charity connected to seriously ill children. We are very mindful that themes within the programme may be upsetting for families affected by childhood cancer and for those who have experienced or witnessed serious illness in a child. 

The series raises sensitive questions about illness, vulnerability, and safeguarding. While we cannot comment on individual circumstances, we recognise that coverage of situations like this can have a real and lasting emotional impact on families within our community. 

We know that many families we support are already navigating some very difficult moments and making complex treatment decisions, coping with uncertainty, and in some cases sharing their child’s story publicly in order to access care. For some, aspects of the programme may feel unsettling or may prompt concern about how their own experiences are perceived. 

Solving Kids’ Cancer UK exists to improve outcomes for children with cancer by enabling access to the best possible treatment and care, and by supporting families facing extraordinarily difficult circumstances. Our work is shaped by the voices and needs of children and families, and is grounded in compassion, integrity, and safeguarding. 

Solving Kids’ Cancer UK was not connected to the charity featured in the programme, and we have not been involved in the production of the series. Any individuals known to us who appear in the programme have done so in a personal capacity and not as representatives of the charity. 

As part of our work, and where appropriate, we support families to fundraise for treatment for their children, including in some cases novel or overseas options. This is always carried out within a clear framework of clinical input, ethical oversight, transparency, and safeguarding, with the safety and wellbeing of children and families at the centre of all decisions. 

Our priority at all times is to protect families, maintain trust, and ensure that those we support feel safe, respected, and cared for. We remain firmly committed to evidence-based advocacy, strong governance, and the highest standards of safeguarding. 

If anyone within our community has been affected in any way by the programme, or would like to talk, our Family Support Team is here for you. Please contact us on 0207 284 0800 or support@solvingkidscancer.org.uk. 

Any media enquiries relating to Solving Kids’ Cancer UK should be directed to Danielle Russell, Head of Fundraising & Engagement: Email danielle.russell@solvingkidscancer.org.uk or Tel 020 4582 7396