Affiliated support groups form part of PCFA's national network and provide peer support to those impacted by prostate cancer in the local community. PCFA is proud to work with over 130 dedicated affiliated support groups who conduct an extremely valuable service.
Groups belonging to the PCFA Network are run independently and therefore determine their own group format, activities and structure. Every group in the Network is different. We therefore encourage potential members to contact group leaders and have a chat with them directly to determine which group may meet their individual needs.
As part of the affiliation relationship groups are asked to adhere to;
- PCFA's five core values
- operate independently and not subject to control by an individual, organisation or government agency
- have their own name
- accept responsibility for managing their own activities, resources and finance
- clearly identify as "Affiliated with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia" and not use the PCFA's name or logo
If you would like to set up a prostate cancer support group in your community we would welcome having a conversation with you. We would particularly invite people interested in leading a group that focuses on delivering support to groups currently under-represented; multicultural, gay / bi men, partners & carers, or younger men.
For further information please contact our Network Helpline on 1800 00 22 98 or email supportnetwork@pcfa.org.au
The purpose of a peer-based support group is to allow a safe space to connect and share with others who have been through a similar experience. The role of a support group leader is to help foster that supportive environment, whether that is in a face to face, telephone or web based group.
Being a support group leader can be both rewarding and challenging, requiring some consideration before undertaking the role. For this reason we encourage anyone interested in the role to have a conversation with our Support & Community Outreach Team.
Some general points to consider regarding what is involved in the role include;
- Enabling access to & sharing of information with group members
- Facilitate group meetings
- Being aware of the needs of the group as a whole
- Be a positive role model for others
- Availability of time to commit to the group
- Being accepting, empathic and supportive to others
- Belong to a network of affiliated support groups across Australia
- Access to support & information on running an effective group
- Receive regular communication through newsletters, emails and phone calls
- Access to latest resources on prostate cancer
- Promote group contact details on PCFA website
- Receive invitations to attend information, learning and networking sessions
- Access to an online group leader social network
- Letters of support for grant applications
- Use of Proudly Affiliated with PCFA logo
- Access to public liability insurance for group activities
As a way of increasing the support network for groups and their leaders, it is recommended that groups also establish relationships with respective Cancer Councils and other relevant local community agencies or centres.
Individual access to support and information on leading a prostate cancer support group is available through our experienced Support & Community Outreach Team. Peer support is also available from the affiliated network, enabling you to connect with other people leading similar groups in the community.
Should you want further information on individual group leader training, please contact our Network Helpline on 1800 00 22 98.
PCFA recognises and encourages attendance to support group leader training delivered by Cancer Councils across Australian states and territories. Wherever possible PCFA works to promote and collaborate with Cancer Councils on evidence-based and tailored group leader training to assist and strengthen the delivery of peer support in the community.
PCFA's Ambassadors are trained community volunteers, many with first-hand experience of prostate cancer, who give presentations to workplaces, community groups, and organisations on the importance of awareness and early detection of prostate cancer, and increase awareness in the community through speaking engagements. They also provide informational resources for those who wish to learn more.
The role can be challenging but rewarding, as Ambassadors have the opportunity to educate and encourage others to be more proactive regarding their health.
PCFA has Ambassadors in all states and territories, and are available to speak at events as a free community resource.
Some general points to consider regarding what the Ambassador role requires:
- Strong presentation and public speaking abilities
- Deliver PCFA's evidence-based information about prostate cancer, and present with confidence, dignity, and respect
- Communicate accurately PCFA's policies on testing and key health messaging
- Proficient with technology (Power Point, email, internet)
Becoming an Ambassador
Recruitment of Ambassadors is based on community and program needs. At this time we are not actively recruiting new speakers in general. We are however currently seeking bi-lingual men and women from Chinese, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese and Arabic communities who have a personal experience of prostate cancer, as well as those with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, who may be interested in the role.
We wish to work with these Ambassadors to help strengthen our links with their cultural communities and help PCFA deliver appropriate resources that support men and their families with prostate cancer from diverse cultural backgrounds. Please contact us for further information.
For more information, please contact our Network Helpline on 1800 00 22 98 or email ambassadors@pcfa.org.au
All new Ambassadors undergo a thorough training program before beginning their volunteer activities. Training will include an orientation to PCFA, public speaking and presenting practice, and tips on crafting your personal story.
Ambassadors also receive ongoing support from PCFA through:
- Access to support & information on delivering program presentations
- Receive communication through newsletters, emails and phone calls
- Access to latest resources on prostate cancer
- Receive invitations to attend information, learning and networking sessions
- Access to an online Ambassador social network
PCFA’s Life Force Program aims to raise awareness of prostate cancer in workplaces and communities across Australia and encourage more men to take action to improve their health outcomes. Learn more.
Affiliated PCFA support group leaders and Ambassadors are encouraged to join our Online Community. PCFA's Online Community provides a space for support group leaders and Ambassadors to share ideas, support each other in tackling challenges and to celebrate successes. It also provides access to a range of resources for to assist in your role.
To join PCFA's online community go to onlinecommunity.pcfa.org.au and click Join Network. As this is currently a closed group, please note that your application to join will need to be approved by PCFA before you are able to access the online group page.
The Support & Community Outreach team is here to help. Please contact our Network Helpline on 1800 00 22 98 or email supportnetwork@pcfa.org.au for all of your support group and Ambassador enquires. We welcome your interest.
