We describe our impressions gained in the process of systematic interviewing of children with chronic renal failure. In spite of improved techniques of medical treatment in recent years, many of these children and their families remain under considerable strain. This is caused by anxieties about the child's general prospects for the future, problems in accepting the illness and treatment, particularly with a late onset of the condition, and multiple hospital admissions with occasional life-threatening incidents. In spite of their less serious nature, chronic features such as poor growth and urinary incontinence seem to be particularly worrying for many children and their parents. We feel that it is worth considering how to improve the supports for these families, helping parents to be more aware of community facilities that are available, and striving to improve communication between the different agencies (hospital, general practitioners, schools, etc.) involved.