<p>Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a form of leukaemia that predominates in patients at around 65 years of age. Some patients can live for decades with CLL, while others require frequent and multiple forms of therapy, yet succumb to the illness within a few years. This paper describes the diagnosis, prognostic features and management of patients with CLL, with particular reference to how nurse services and information and support from the CLL Support Association (CLLSA) can improve the care of this group of patients. Howard Pearce from the CLLSA describes his personal experience as a patient with CLL and the origins and functions of the CLLSA, which is a new and expanding patient-led resource for those with CLL.</p>