[HuxleyPig]

Before they go in, they are told to list things that they would like to be informed about from the outside world.

Dawn in BB7 was told about something to do with her sisters health (which turned out to be a code).
Rachel last year was told about her exam results, as have other housemates that I cant remember now.
Jonathan in BB8 was told about his grandmothers death.

I'd be very surprised if Charlie hadn't asked to be kept informed of his mother's condition.