Support Services
Support Groups in Tasmania
What is a support group?
A support group is a gathering of people who come together regularly to discuss their common experience.
Support groups offer emotional support to people diagnosed with cancer at a time when they may feel alone, vulnerable and frightened. Cancer support groups provide a safe place for people affected by cancer to come together, develop friendships, share ideas and thoughts in a safe and confidential environment.
Even though people often receive support from family and friends, research shows that the main reason people join support groups are to:
- feel less alone and isolated
- feel understood by others affected by cancer, giving and receiving support
- get current information about medical research, cancer treatments and side effects
- share and develop coping strategies
Cancer Council Tasmania has a range of support groups available throughout the State. A member of our supportive care staff facilitates each group, sometimes in conjunction with a health professional specialising in the particular type of cancer or volunteers who have undergone specific training.
Our groups generally meet on a monthly basis and are best for people recently diagnosed, going through treatment and/or experiencing distress as a result of their cancer diagnosis. Carers are welcome at many of our groups – please talk to our staff if you would like to invite someone to attend with you. New members are always welcome but registration is required for all participants.
For further information call 1300 65 65 85 or use the email links below.
Telephone and internet Cancer Support Groups
There are a variety of telephone and internet cancer support groups available to people who prefer the convenience and privacy of receiving peer-related support in their own home. Each group is facilitated by trained professional staff. Participation is free and members are from all states of Australia. For more information contact us on 1300 65 65 85.
Southern Cancer Support Groups
Metastatic Breast cancer, second Wednesday of the month, 2-4pm
Bowel Cancer, second Thursday of the month, 2-4pm
Hobart All Cancers
For adults impacted by any type of cancer and their immediate carers. Held at the Cancer Council Support Centre in Sandy Bay. For more details and registration contact 1300 65 65 85 or supportservicessouth@cancertas.org.au
Prostate Cancer
For men impacted by prostate cancer. Held at the Cancer Council Support Centre in Sandy Bay. For more details and registration contact 1300 65 65 85 or supportservicessouth@cancertas.org.au
Northern Cancer Support Groups
Men with Cancer
For men with any type of cancer. Held at the Cancer Council Support Centre in Launceston. For more details and registration contact 1300 65 65 85 or supportservicesnorth@cancertas.org.au
Launceston All Cancers
For adults with a cancer diagnosis. Held at the Cancer Council Support Centre in Launceston. For more details and registration contact 1300 65 65 85 or supportservicesnorth@cancertas.org.au
North West Cancer Support Groups
Men with Cancer
For men with a cancer diagnosis, held at the Devonport Support Centre. For further information and registrations contact 1300 65 65 85 or supportservicesnw@cancertas.org.au
Support services enquiry form
If you are interested in participating in any of our programs either online or in one of our centres please complete the online form below or call 1300 656585 for more information. One of our support team will be in touch with you to follow up.