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.
Affiliated PCFA support group leaders are encouraged to join the PCFA Online Community. The community is a safe digital forum for people impacted by prostate cancer to share their experiences, connect with others to join the discussion, and access PCFA support services.
Whether you’re directly experiencing prostate cancer or supporting someone who is, this is a forum to connect, engage in conversations, and seek advice.
Share experiences. Connect with others. Join the discussion.
The Support & Community Outreach team is here to help. Please contact our Network Helpline on 1800 00 22 99 or email supportnetwork@pcfa.org.au for all of your support group and Ambassador enquires. We welcome your interest.
