Starting a local support group
I recently attended a breast cancer support group which was great. I liked how many of the women had been meeting as a group for around 20 years. They shared their past experiences and supported us ot...
Forum Discussion
I facilitate a support group in the Hills area in north west Sydney.Initially I did the community liaison course with BCNA and have attended Cancer Council workshops on running a support group.I registered my group with both organizations so a group name is helpful. I also liaised with my local breast care nurse and then gradually with other local groups. Cancer council and BCNA both have good booklets on info for starting up a group- you could ring and get a copy?
There are guidelines regarding a group agreement and confidentiality.
My group is fairly structured ie. I give half an hour for all to arrive and grab a cuppa and then I start with apologies, housekeeping,recent info/news and then we go around the table with everyone having’air time’. If it’s just a small group at a cafe then it’ll be less formal and possibly a free for all. I’ve been lucky enough to have the use of the local CWA cottage - we pay a small rent for a few hours. I provide morning tea. It’s great because it’s more private if we want to laugh or cry or flash! I keep everyone in the loop with a monthly email as some can’t come if having treatment or working.
You’ll probably need a’wingman’ if your group grows and for whatever reason,you can’t make it to the cafe.
I’ve found morning tea to be the best time as people are fresh,it’s quieter than lunchtime and it then gives you the rest of the day.Best wishes xx
There are guidelines regarding a group agreement and confidentiality.
My group is fairly structured ie. I give half an hour for all to arrive and grab a cuppa and then I start with apologies, housekeeping,recent info/news and then we go around the table with everyone having’air time’. If it’s just a small group at a cafe then it’ll be less formal and possibly a free for all. I’ve been lucky enough to have the use of the local CWA cottage - we pay a small rent for a few hours. I provide morning tea. It’s great because it’s more private if we want to laugh or cry or flash! I keep everyone in the loop with a monthly email as some can’t come if having treatment or working.
You’ll probably need a’wingman’ if your group grows and for whatever reason,you can’t make it to the cafe.
I’ve found morning tea to be the best time as people are fresh,it’s quieter than lunchtime and it then gives you the rest of the day.Best wishes xx