For cancer patients, family and friends
Myself more than most understand the impact that cancer can have on you and your family. The support services are vital to improving your journey and help you through these tough times. I have listed a range of services that are provided by Cancer Council WA (this information is direct from their website). They offer a range of practical and emotional support services, cancer-related information and referrals to professional services.
For more information about any of the support services Cancer Council WA provide, call 13 11 20 and speak to one of their cancer care nurses.
Cancer Council WA Support and services available include:
- Exercise and meditative courses – The Life Now Program offers introductory exercise, meditation, mindful art, mindfulness, tai chi and yoga courses at locations across the state. Programs are run free of charge for people living with cancer and their carers.
- Regional WA services – Regional Cancer Coordinators are located across Western Australia. They can provide information, offer emotional support and connect anyone affected by cancer to local services and support groups in their area.
- Accommodation in Perth – Cancer Council WA offers comfortable, convenient ‘home away from home’ accommodation for eligible, regional cancer patients and their carers who have to travel to Perth for cancer treatment (subject to availability).
- Cancer Connect – Talking to others who understand what you are going through can help ease the burden of a cancer journey, whether you have cancer or are caring for someone who does. Cancer Connect is a telephone-based, peer support program which can link you with a trained volunteer who has had a similar cancer experience.
- Cancer counselling services – If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to a professional counsellor who has experience in dealing with cancer-related issues.
- Cancer support groups – Support groups offer a confidential supportive place to share experiences, learn from and connect with others affected by cancer. Our groups are run by trained facilitators and can be face to face, online or by telephone.
- Complementary therapies – Complementary therapies are supportive therapies that can be used alongside cancer treatments to improve general wellbeing and quality of life. Cancer Council WA provides these free of charge by qualified therapists who volunteer their time.
- Wig Service – The free wig service has an extensive range of wigs, turbans and scarves. These may be borrowed for as long as required while going through cancer treatment.
- Finding information about cancer – Tips on finding information via the internet, the information in other languages and available publications and resources. We provide a range of resources including booklets, brochures, fact sheets, videos, podcasts, DVDs and CDs on cancer types, cancers treatment, living with cancer and living well after cancer. Our resources are available to view or download via our publications page.
- Cancer Council 13 11 20 – Calling 13 11 20 information and support line connects you to our Cancer Nurses. They can provide anyone affected by cancer with confidential, accurate information and support on any cancer-related concerns. They can also inform you of services and programs. Calls are confidential and available statewide Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
- Legal and financial planning advice service – Cancer can change many things including how you manage financially. If you need assistance with financial planning or other legal or financial matters, we may be able to connect you to a lawyer or financial planner who may be able to assist you (subject to eligibility).
- Financial hardship and practical assistance – Cancer treatment can put enormous strain on your resources and that sometimes a little help can go a long way. They offer financial assistance to patients undergoing cancer treatment who meet financial hardship criteria. They can also provide short-term practical assistance such as in-home childcare, domestic cleaning and gardening for eligible patients who have limited support and resources.
If these services are not what you are looking for contact us, are we can help you find the right support service that suits you.