Help shape inclusion at BCNA 🗣️
Your voice can enhance our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Strategy At BCNA, we know that a breast cancer diagnosis is shaped by culture, identity, language, geography, and the systems we all navigate. We heard through our Member Experience Survey that we were not doing enough to reach some populations and communities, and when we did, the experience of these people in accessing out information and support didn’t always feel culturally relevant and inclusive That is why we are developing a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Strategy – a commitment to making BCNA more equitable, more accessible, and more representative of those we serve. We are developing this strategy to help ensure that everyone affected by breast cancer can access the support, information and care they need. This work will help BCNA improve how we include and support people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. We know that people’s experiences of breast cancer are not the same. Often, factors like culture, language, gender, location, disability and finances overlap and create additional challenges. This is what we mean by “intersectionality”. To make sure the strategy reflects real experiences, we are listening directly to people through consultations. Your insights will help identify what is working, what is not, and what needs to change to make BCNA’s services more inclusive and accessible for everyone. BCNA is working with MindTribes – a specialist diversity, equity and inclusion consultancy – to run a series of confidential consultation sessions with our staff, consumers/members, advisory groups, and community representatives. These sessions will help us understand where we are doing well, where there are gaps, and what needs to change. The insights from these sessions will directly shape the strategy we develop and the actions that follow. We are committed to making these sessions safe spaces – led by experienced external facilitators, confidential, and designed to respect every person’s experience and identity. You are always in control of what and how much you share. Further information about how to participate will be shared with you shortly. In the meantime, we encourage you to sit with this question: what needs to change at BCNA for the organisation to be more representative and inclusive? We are looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences. We will treat them with respect and confidentiality.🧠FREE ACCESS to Mental Health Care ❤️
A Medicare card is not needed to access this service. If you or someone in your community is feeling stressed, overwhelmed, worried, or unsure where to get help, support is available for you. You do not need a Medicare card. You do not need to pay to get started. And you do not need to navigate it alone. Medicare Mental Health Centres connect people with trained mental health professionals who can support you with: Managing health concerns Stress, anxiety, or low mood Family or relationship pressures Settlement challenges Trauma or past difficult experiences Feeling isolated or lonely These services are welcoming, safe, confidential, and culturally respectful. 📞 Call them on 1800 595 212 (Mon–Fri, 8:30am–5pm) to get free mental health care help that fits your individual needs and budget. They can help you make a plan, find services near you, and arrange interpreters if needed. Everyone deserves support - please call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 if you're not sure where to get started - we are here to help ❤️Let’s Get to Know Each Other – What Languages Do We Speak? 🌍💬
Our CALD community is incredibly diverse, and we want to make sure the content and information we share genuinely support everyone here. One way we can do that is by understanding the different languages and cultural backgrounds represented in our group. So, we’d love to hear from you: What languages do you speak or understand? This could be your first language, a language you learned later in life, or even one you don’t use as often anymore. I’ll go first: I speak Latvian, and I know a little bit of German (although I’m slowly losing my touch!). Sharing your languages helps us tailor information, resources, and support so they’re as helpful and accessible as possible. 💗🌏 There’s absolutely no pressure — only share what you're comfortable with.🌍 Research Findings: Experiences of CALD People with Cancer
For those interested in understanding more about the unique experiences and needs of people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds affected by cancer, Victorian Integrated Cancer Services (VICS) has released important consultation findings. These insights explore the challenges CALD communities face when navigating cancer care and highlight opportunities to create more inclusive, accessible, and culturally safe support across the system. You can read the full research findings and project details here: 👉 https://vics.org.au/projects/cald-consultation-2025-26-vics-optimal-care-summits If you’d like to discuss the report, share your reflections, or talk about what culturally responsive care means to you, feel free to start a conversation below. Your perspectives are always valued. 💛Welcome to the Group – Multilingual Breast Cancer Resources Available
We’re glad you found our Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) group! If you or someone you care for prefers information in a language other than English, Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) offers a range of Multilingual resources designed to support people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities. What’s available? BCNA provides translated information in multiple languages, including resources about: Understanding breast cancer Treatment options and side effects Living well during and after treatment Support services and navigating the health system These resources are designed to help everyone feel informed, supported, and included. We’re here for you🤝 If you have questions or need help finding resources in your preferred language, please reach out to BCNA's Helpline 1800 500 258 or call The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50 ask to call Breast Cancer Network Australia.
Group Content
A welcoming space for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds to connect, share experiences, and support one another. This group celebrates different languages, traditions, and stories while building strong, respectful connections. Join us to learn from one another, celebrate diversity, and contribute to a community where every voice matters.
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