A Directory of Support Services for People Affected by Cancer in the ACT

CANCER SERVICES ACT SERVICES CANCER Cancer Services ACT A directory of support services for people affected by cancer in the ACT

For cancer information and support call

For information and support on cancer and cancer related issues call 13 11 20 Email [email protected] 2018 July 13 11 20 Visit www.actcancer.org www.actcancer.org Note to reader All care is taken to ensure that the information in this booklet is accurate at the time of publication. Please note that inclusion of a service in this directory does not imply any endorsement or association of that service by Cancer Council ACT. This booklet provides a list of services and organisations that may be of assistance to those affected by cancer, and should not be considered exhaustive.

Unit 1/173 Strickland Crescent Deakin ACT 2600 T: 02 6257 9999 F: 02 6257 5055 W: www.actcancer.org July 2018 Contents

Introduction...... 2 Support at home...... 18 Equipment and home modification...... 18 Treatment centres...... 4 Home nursing services...... 19 Public...... 4 Other practical support and information...... 19 Private...... 4 Clinical trials...... 4 Prostheses and personal care aids...... 20 Other...... 4 Breast prostheses services ...... 20 Continence services...... 20 Palliative care...... 5 Lymphoedema services...... 20 Cancer information...... 6 Medicine information...... 20 Telephone information...... 6 Stoma services...... 20 Cancer education and resources...... 6 Websites...... 7 Physical health and wellbeing...... 21 Diet...... 22 Genetics and risk...... 8 Screening services...... 22 Support for carers...... 9 Fertility...... 22 Respite services...... 10 Holiday break accommodation...... 22 Wigs and other headwear...... 23 Support for children and families...... 11

Employment, financial and legal support...... 13 Emotional support...... 24 Employment support...... 13 Counselling services...... 24 Financial support...... 13 Cancer support groups...... 25 Legal support...... 15 Other cancer support...... 26

Accommodation and transport...... 16 Bereavement services...... 28 Accommodation...... 16 Transport...... 17

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Call 13 11 20 or email [email protected] for information.

Contents 1 Introduction

This directory was developed as a guide to cancer services in the ACT for people with cancer, their carers, families and friends. It is also designed to be a resource for health professionals working in cancer care. A diagnosis of cancer can pose many challenges. They can range from the practical, like how to get to a medical appointment, to the emotionally complex, like thinking about life and death. The services listed in this directory can help with many of these challenges. Many are also available to family, friends and carers. If you would like more details about any of the services listed in this directory, or are looking for a service that is not listed, contact Cancer Council’s Information and Support line on 13 11 20 or email [email protected]. This service complements the care provided by your treatment team and is available Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm. An electronic version of this directory is also available on Cancer Council ACT’s website www.actcancer.org. This online version is kept up to date as we become aware of any changes.

2 Introduction Cancer Information and Support

Cancer Council 13 11 20 Wig service

Our specially trained staff can provide Losing your hair as a result of cancer information and support on any aspect of treatment is challenging for many people. cancer as well as connect you to a range of Our Wig Service stocks a range of new and suitable services. nearly new wigs, and turbans for sale at affordable prices. Cancer information Cancer support groups We provide a range of free booklets and fact sheets on cancer types, cancer treatment, Support groups provide a safe place for living with cancer and living well after cancer. people affected by cancer to talk to others Each resource is regularly reviewed by cancer in a similar situation in a confidential and experts so you can be confident that you are supportive environment. Cancer Council receiving the most up to date information. offers a range of support groups, these may be face to face, online or over the phone. Cancer education programs Peer support Our free education programs for people with cancer and their family and friends, help If you’d like to speak with someone who’s you learn more about cancer and give you had a similar experience, our Cancer Connect the opportunity to meet others in a similar program can match you with a trained situation. They cover a range of topics volunteer who has been through the same or including cancer and its treatments, living similar diagnosis and treatment. with cancer, survival skills and how to cope. There is also a professionally moderated Legal, financial and workplace advice online support community where people affected by cancer can find, receive and We provide people affected by cancer with provide support by participating in groups, access to free legal, financial, workplace and discussions, blogs and webinars. small business advice if they cannot afford Visit www.cancercouncil.com.au/oc to pay for it. For more information and to access We can also help to find community and these programs call 13 11 20 or email government resources that may be able to [email protected]. help financially.

3 Treatment centres

There are both public and private cancer treatment facilities in the ACT. Most centres also offer a variety of allied health services to their patients such as social work, nutrition services, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pastoral care, palliative care, etc. Speak with your specialist to find a centre that is most appropriate for your situation and treatment. At the time of printing, the Canberra Region Cancer Centre at Canberra Hospital is the only facility in the ACT that provides a radiation therapy service. If you require radiation therapy, your doctor will refer you to this service.

Public Private Other

Calvary Public Hospital Calvary John James Hospital Accessing non-PBS Funded Bruce Blood Cancer Drugs 173 Strickland Crescent Mary Potter Circuit DEAKIN www.leukaemia.org.au BRUCE www.calvarycare.org.au/john- A Leukaemia Foundation www.calvarycare.org.au/public- james-private-hospital-canberra/ booklet on ways to access hospital-bruce/ 02 6281 8100 cancer drugs not funded by the 02 6201 6111 Calvary Private Hospital Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Canberra Hospital (PBS). The information covers Mary Potter Circuit access to blood cancer drugs Yamba Drive BRUCE but is useful to people affected GARRAN www.calvarycare.org.au/bruce- by other cancer types as well. www.health.act.gov.au private-hospital/ Search for ‘non-PBS funded 02 6244 2222 02 6201 6111 blood cancer drugs’. Canberra Region Cancer National Capital Private Centre Hospital Looking for a specialist? Canberra Hospital Gilmore Crescent Cancer Council Australia Yamba Drive GARRAN has developed a web-based GARRAN www.nationalcapitalprivatehospital. directory of specialists at www.health.act.gov.au com.au http://www.cancer.org. 02 6174 8444 02 6222 6666 au/about-cancer/find-a- specialist.html to make University of Canberra Clinical trials it easy to find a doctor Hospital who specialises in a Guraguma Street Australian Cancer Trials particular field of cancer BRUCE www.australiancancertrials.gov.au treatment. www.health.act.gov.au/uch 02 6244 2222 Contains information on the latest clinical trials in cancer care in Australia.

4 Treatment centres Palliative care

Palliative care aims to help people with a life-limiting illness to live as fully and comfortably as possible. It involves a range of services offered by doctors, nurses and allied health professionals, as well as volunteers and carers, who work together to meet a person’s physical, practical, emotional and spiritual needs, as well as providing support to family and friends. Palliative care is offered in different settings, depending on the situation. It can be provided at home, in a residential aged-care facility, in a hospital or in a palliative care unit.

CareSearch Palliative Care ACT Managing your www.caresearch.com.au www.pallcareact.org.au digital legacy 02 6255 5771 A range of palliative care If you use social media, such information for patients, carers, Provides a volunteer program that as Facebook, Twitter and families and health professionals. supports palliative care patients, Instagram, you will need to families and carers. think about what happens Community Specialist to your accounts after your Palliative Care Services Queanbeyan Palliative Care death. Each social media Clare Holland House Queanbeyan Community Health platform has different rules Menindee Drive Centre for deactivating accounts, BARTON QUEANBEYAN NSW while some allow your www.calvarycare.org.au 02 6150 7144 account to be turned into a 02 6273 0336 Supports terminally ill patients, memorial page. It is a good Provides a supportive palliative their families and carers at home idea to leave a list of all care service for people with and in hospital. Bereavement and your accounts, passwords life threatening illnesses who other counselling is also available. and instructions with no longer respond to curative someone you trust, so they therapy. Includes outpatient clinic can manage your ongoing services, care in the home or digital presence according to residential setting and inpatient your wishes. hospice services. Palliative Care Australia has produced a Guide to a Social Media Afterlife. You can find it at www.palliativecare.org. au/ resources

Palliative care 5 Cancer information

Cancer Council produces booklets, factsheets and CDs covering a range of topics including cancer types, treatment, side effect management, advanced cancer and practical, legal and financial issues. These resources are reviewed regularly in consultation with leading health professionals and topic experts. They are available to read or download on www.actcancer.org or call 13 11 20 to order a free copy.

Telephone information Quitline Cancer education 13 7848 (13 QUIT) and resources Cancer Council 13 11 20 Provides advice and assistance to ACT Specialist Breast Care Cancer Council ACT support people who are trying to Nurses www.actcancer.org stop smoking. [email protected] Calvary Hospital 13 11 20 BRUCE A free, confidential telephone Telephone Translation www.calvarycare.org.au information and support service. and Interpreting Service [email protected] Specially trained staff can www.tisnational.gov.au 02 6201 6944 / 02 6201 6943 answer questions about all 13 14 50 0409 533 467 aspects of cancer, as well as To speak to a service in a The Breast Care Nurses Team offering practical and emotional language other than English. specialises in caring for patients support, and referral to with breast cancer at all stages appropriate services. National Relay Service of their diagnosis, treatment and recovery. A medical referral www.relayservice.gov.au Health Direct is not required. www.healthdirect.gov.au For people who are deaf, 1800 022 222 or have a hearing or Cancer Council ACT speech impairment, contact Education Programs A 24 hour telephone health services through the National advice service staffed by Cancer Council ACT Relay Service. registered nurses to provide www.actcancer.org expert health advice about any 02 6257 9999 health issue and what action Cancer Council ACT runs free to take. education programs covering a range of topics, for people with cancer, their family and friends.

6 Cancer information Cancer Specialist Nurses Smoking Cessation Australian Sites Canberra Region Cancer Centre Cancer Council ACT Cancer Australia GARRAN www.actcancer.org https://canceraustralia.gov.au acthealthnursecarecoordinators@ 02 6257 9999 Cancer Institute (NSW) act.gov.au Provides quit smoking courses, www.cancerinstitute.org.au Adolescents and young adults workplace and community quit Canteen and sarcoma smoking seminars and individual www.canteen.org.au 02 6174 5788 counselling. Advanced breast cancer Health Translations Directory 02 6244 3896 Websites www.healthtranslations.vic.gov.au Gastrointestinal cancer Listed below are trusted Provides links to reliable 02 6174 5269 Australian and international translated health resources produced in Australia. Gynaecological, brain and CNS organisations providing cancers information useful to those Rare Cancers Australia 02 6244 4416 affected by cancer. If you have www.rarecancers.org.au any questions about the reliability Haematological cancers of a website, contact 13 11 20 International Sites 02 6244 3447 for assistance. American Cancer Society Head and neck cancers www.cancer.org 02 6244 3446 Cancer Council Sites Cancer Research UK Lung cancer and mesothelioma Cancer Council Australia www.cancerresearchuk.org 02 6244 3895 www.cancer.org.au Macmillan Cancer Support (UK) Lymphoma Cancer Council Online Community www.macmillan.org.uk 02 6174 8520 www.cancercouncil.com.au/oc National Cancer Institute (US) Melanoma and skin cancer Cancer Directory www.cancer.gov 02 6714 8500 www.cancerdirectory.com.au Prostate cancer iheard 02 6244 3897 www.iheard.com.au Urological cancers Provides evidence based answers 02 6174 5964 to popular myths and claims Specialist nurses who help about cancer risks, prevention, people diagnosed with cancer screening and treatment. navigate their way through the What to expect? health care system. They can www.cancerpathways.org.au provide information and education and are a point of contact when Guides that outline the best you are not sure who to turn to cancer care for specific cancer for assistance. types from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond.

Cancer information 7 Genetics and risk

While most cases of cancer are not due to a history of cancer in the family, for a small number of people, their family history suggests they may have a genetic risk. This means their chance of developing cancer is potentially higher than the average population. The family doctor is the best place to discuss concerns and determine if a referral for genetic counselling is required. Genetic counselling services provide information, services and support for patients and their families with or at risk of developing an inherited health condition.

ACT Genetic Service www.health.act.gov.au More information 02 6174 7630 Cancer Council’s Understanding series of booklets and Provides genetic counselling and factsheets cover the following cancer types. testing for individuals and families Call 13 11 20 to order a free copy or view online at with a family history of cancer. www.actcancer.org.

NSW and ACT Hereditary Anal Mesothelioma Cancer Registry Bladder Ovarian Cancer Institute NSW Bone Pancreatic www.cancerinstitute.org.au Bowel Prostate 1800 505 644 Brain Skin Provides information and support Breast Stomach and to people affected by hereditary Cervical Oesophageal cancer, their family members who Head and Neck Testicular may be at risk, and their doctors Kidney Thyroid in NSW and ACT. Liver Unknown primary The Centre for Genetics Lung Uterine Education Melanoma Vulvar and Vaginal www.genetics.edu.au Contains a range of information on genetic conditions for individuals, families and health professionals.

8 Genetics and risk Support for carers

Caring for someone with cancer can be a fulfilling yet challenging experience. There are a range of services available for carers that can support you physically, emotionally, and financially. Please note that many of the services listed throughout this directory are also available to family and friends.

Cancer Council CanTeen ACT and Southern Cyclops Online Community NSW Division www.anglicare.com.au www.cancercouncil.com.au/oc 7-11 Barry Drive 02 6232 2432 TURNER Cancer Council Online Community Provides support, support groups, www.canteen.org.au is an online platform for people recreational and educational 02 6101 2207 affected by cancer to connect, activities for young carers aged share experiences and find Provides a peer support network 10–25, and their families. information and support in a for young people (12-25 years) safe forum. living with cancer, this includes My Aged Care siblings and offspring of people www.myagedcare.gov.au Cancer Connect with cancer. Also provides 1800 200 422 Cancer Council ACT telephone and online counselling Provides information about www.actcancer.org and individual support. aged care services and a range 13 11 20 Carers ACT Inc. of services that assist older A telephone peer support people in their own home, as www.carersact.org.au service that puts patients, well as what you need to do to 1800 242 636 carers or family members in access the services. touch with others who have Provides information, referral, had a similar experience. individual counselling, group Skills for Carers support services, respite care, a Canberra Institute of Technology Cancer Counselling Service library and resource centre and (CIT) Phillip Health Centre workshops which are available to [email protected] Cnr Corinna and Keltie Street any carer of a child or adult with 02 6207 3628 PHILLIP an illness. Also provide the Young A range of courses to assist Belconnen Health Centre Carers program for young carers those caring for someone with a 56 Lathlain Street aged up to 25 years. chronic illness. BELCONNEN 02 6207 9977 Carer Gateway www.health.act.gov.au www.carergateway.gov.au 1800 422 737 Provides free psychological, social and practical support and A national online and phone counselling for adult cancer service that provides practical patients, their families and carers. information and resources to support carers.

Support for carers 9 Respite services More information Carers ACT The following Cancer Council booklets and factsheets www.carersact.org.au may also be useful: 1800 242 636 Cancer treatments and side effects Provides respite care services to Chemotherapy any carer of a child or adult with Clinical Trials and Research an illness. Complementary Therapies Carer Gateway Fertility and Cancer www.carergateway.gov.au Hair Loss 1800 422 737 Immunotherapy Lymphoedema A national online and phone Mouth Health and Cancer Treatment service that provides practical Overcoming Cancer Pain information and resources to support carers, including Palliative Care information on respite services. Radiotherapy Surgery Duo Services Australia Taste and Smell Changes www.duo.org.au Living with cancer 02 6287 2870 Cancer and Your Finances Provides a full range of support Cancer Care and Your Rights at home and in the community Cancer in the School Community for children/ young people with Cancer Support Groups disabilities and their families, Cancer, Work and You adults with disabilities, frail aged Caring for Someone with Cancer people and people with mental Emotions and Cancer health conditions living in the Exercise for People Living with Cancer ACT, to enable them to live in their own home. Facing End of Life Living Well After Cancer My Aged Care Living With Advanced Cancer www.myagedcare.gov.au Nutrition and Cancer 1800 200 422 Sexuality, Intimacy and Cancer Talking to Kids About Cancer Provides information about Understanding Grief respite care services and how to access them. Call 13 11 20 for a free copy or view online at www.actcancer.org

10 Support for carers Support for children and families

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, or a child is coping with a family or friend going through cancer, it can be a very difficult time. There are many services available which support children and their families who are facing emotional, educational, practical and financial challenges. Some organisations provide recreational activities as well.

Camp Quality Canberra Children’s Cancer Make a Wish Foundation www.campquality.org.au Cancer Australia www.makeawish.org.au 02 6287 3545 https://childrenscancer. 1800 032 260 canceraustralia.gov.au/ Provides recreational, Grants wishes of children educational, hospital and financial A website that provides evidence (aged 4–18) with a life support programs for children based information on children’s threatening illness. from 0 to 13 years with cancer cancers for families, carers and and their siblings. health professionals. Monkey in my Chair www.monkeyinmychair.org Cancer Advisor Kids Guide to Cancer 1300 265 206 Redkite Camp Quality A free program designed to www.canceradvisor.org.au www.campquality.org.au/ keep seriously ill children kidsguidetocancer Cancer Advisor is a one-stop connected to their school and information website for families An app that provides age friendship groups. of Australian children and young appropriate information to teach people with cancer. kids about the cancer journey Red Kite and how they might support www.redkite.org.au CanTeen ACT and Southern their loved one. 1800 733 548 NSW Division Supports children and their 7–11 Barry Drive Kids Helpline families through cancer by TURNER https://kidshelpline.com.au/ providing emotional guidance, www.canteen.org.au 1800 551 800 financial relief and educational 02 6101 2207 Anonymous, confidential services. Provides a mutual peer support telephone, email and online network for young people counselling for young people aged Rise Above – Capital Region (12–25 years) living with cancer, from 5 to 25 years, 24 hours a Cancer Relief this includes patients, siblings and day, seven days a week. 21 Cooma Street offspring of people with cancer. QUEANBEYAN NSW Includes counselling, an online www.riseabovecbr.org.au community and resources for 02 6297 1261 young people affected by cancer. Provides financial support to cancer patients in the ACT and Queanbeyan area.

Support for children and families 11 Ronald McDonald Family Ronald McDonald House WeCare Retreat Fiona Lodge Westmead www.kildonan.org.au BATEMANS BAY NSW Redbank Road 1800 545 366 www.rmhc.org.au WESTMEAD NSW A free and confidential financial 1300 135 848 www.rmhc.org.au support information service for 02 9806 7111 Offers 7 days free holiday families with children and young accommodation in fully equipped Provides accommodation for people living with cancer. units on the beach for families country and interstate families of children who are affected whose children are being Yurana Cancer Kids Holiday by cancer or another life treated at The Children’s Hospital Homes threatening illness. at Westmead. ULLADULLA NSW www.yuranahomes.com.au Ronald McDonald House Starlight Children’s 02 4454 1700 Canberra Foundation of Australia Offers free holiday Canberra Hospital https://starlight.org.au/ accommodation for families of GARRAN 1300 727 827 children affected by cancer or www.rmhc.org.au Provides wishes and other any other serious illness. 02 6281 5894 programs to brighten the lives of Provides accommodation for all seriously ill children and their country and interstate families families throughout Australia. whose seriously ill children are being treated at Canberra Stella Bella Little Stars Hospital. Foundation http://stellabellalittlestars.org.au/ Ronald McDonald House 0423 439 889 Randwick Offers support and assistance 149–151 Barker Street to children living with serious RANDWICK NSW and long term illness, and their www.rmhc.org.au families, in the ACT region. 02 9382 1622 Also operate an inclusive Provides accommodation for childcare facility with a country and interstate families specialised respite and occasional whose children are being treated care unit for chronically ill babies at the Sydney Children’s Hospital. and children 0–5 years.

12 Support for children and families Employment, financial and legal support

After a cancer diagnosis, it may be challenging to manage the impact on your job and finances, and difficult to know where to turn for information, advice and assistance. The services listed below may be able to assist. You can also call 13 11 20 or speak to a social worker at your treating hospital to find available services.

Can Assist Cancer Council Pro Bono Employment support www.canassist.com.au Program Cancer, Work and You 1300 226 277 Cancer Council’s Pro www.actcancer.org Provides financial assistance to Bono Program provides 13 11 20 people affected by cancer people affected by cancer from with access to free legal, A Cancer Council booklet with rural and regional NSW. Visit the financial, workplace and information on how to manage website for contact details of small business advice if they your working life after a cancer your local branch. diagnosis. View online or call cannot afford to pay for it. Care Inc. Financial 13 11 20 for a free copy. The program connects Counselling Service people with professionals Work After Cancer 219 London Circuit in the community who www.workaftercancer.com.au CANBERRA CITY volunteer their time. These www.carefcs.org include lawyers, financial A guide for people diagnosed 02 6257 1788 / 1800 007 007 advisors, small business with cancer, health care providers accountants and human and employers. Provides financial counselling resources/recruitment and information to people on specialists. They can assist Financial support moderate to low incomes who are with a range of issues such experiencing financial difficulties. ACT Government Assistance as drafting wills and powers Department of Human of attorney, accessing www.assistance.act.gov.au Services – Centrelink superannuation, insurance An ACT Government website that claims, debt management www.humanservices.gov.au covers the range of assistance and workplace issues. 13 27 17 and advice people on low Search for Payment Finder to Call 13 11 20 for more incomes may be eligible for identify payments, allowances and information or visit and how to access it. www.actcancer.org. pensions you may be eligible for. These may include: Bereavement Allowance; Carer Allowance; Carer Payment; Disability Support Pension; Newstart Allowance and/or Sickness Allowance.

Employment, financial and legal support 13 Department of Human Interstate Patient Travel and Pancare Foundation Services – Financial Accommodation Assistance www.pancare.org.au Information Service Scheme (IPTAAS) 1300 881 698 www.humanservices.gov.au NSW Government Provides financial assistance to 13 23 00 www.enable.health.nsw.gov.au/ patients and carers to access services/iptaas An education and information specialist medical services for 1800 478 227 service to support the making of the treatment of pancreatic, informed financial decisions. Provides financial assistance liver, biliary, oesophageal and towards accommodation and stomach cancer. Department of Veterans’ travel costs to NSW residents who Affairs need to travel lengthy distances Red Kite www.dva.gov.au for specialist medical treatment www.redkite.org.au 1800 555 254 that is not available locally. 1800 733 548 Provides a range of financial and Money Smart Supports children and their medical benefits for war veterans families through cancer by www.moneysmart.gov.au and their dependants. providing emotional guidance, 1300 300 630 financial relief and educational External Breast Prostheses Provides financial tips and safety services. Reimbursement Program checks from the Australian Medicare Australia Securities and Investments Rise Above www.humanservices.gov.au Commission. 21 Cooma Street 13 20 11 QUEANBEYAN NSW Mummy’s Wish Provides reimbursement of http://riseabovecbr.org.au up to $400 for both new and www.mummyswish.org.au 02 6297 1261 [email protected] replacement external breast Provides financial support to prostheses to all eligible women Provides practical and some cancer patients in the ACT and who have had breast surgery as a financial support to Mums with Queanbeyan area. result of breast cancer. cancer that are pregnant or have at least one child 12 years St John’s Care Interstate Patient Travel Assistance Scheme (IPTAS) or under. www.stjohnscanberra.org/ st-johns-care National Debt Helpline ACT Health 02 6248 7771 www.health.act.gov.au/public- www.ndh.org.au Provides emergency food and information/consumers/interstate- 1800 007 007 patient-travel material aid. 02 6205 5868 Provides a free telephone financial counselling service as Provides financial assistance well as tips and resources to towards accommodation and assist people to find solutions to travel costs to ACT residents their debt problems. who need to travel interstate for medical treatment.

14 Employment, financial and legal support St Vincent de Paul Society Legal support Legal and financial www.vinnies.org.au issues 02 6282 2722 Advance Care Planning Program – ACT Health Cancer Council has a range Provides emergency financial of factsheets covering assistance, food, clothing and www.health.act.gov.au 02 6205 3178 common legal and financial accommodation. issues: Provides information and The Salvation Army assistance with advance care • Compensations for work- www.salvos.org.au planning. related cancers 1300 371 288 • Dealing with debts Legal Aid ACT • Employment and Cancer Provides emergency financial assistance, food, clothing and www.legalaidact.org.au • Family Law shelter. Also a No Interest Loan 1300 654 314 • Getting your affairs provider for people on low Provides free legal information in order incomes needing to borrow up to referral and advice to ACT • Help with bills $1,500 for essential items. residents. • Immigration and cancer • New insurance policies WeCare Public Trustee and Guardian • Superannuation and – ACT www.kildonan.org.au cancer 1800 545 366 www.ptg.act.gov.au • What happens to debts A free and confidential financial 02 6207 9800 after death support information service for Provides trustee, executor and • Your role as executor families with children and young personal financial administration Visit http://www.actcancer. people living with cancer. services including the preparation org/information-and-support/ of wills and enduring power of Your Energy Savings practical-support/legal-and- attorney documents. financial-planning-advice/ to http://yourenergysavings.gov.au/ download a free copy or call Provides information about saving 13 11 20. energy and money as well as available government rebates and assistance.

Employment, financial and legal support 15 Accommodation and transport

Travelling to treatment can be a challenge, even more so if your treatment centre is not close to home. Some people may also need short-term accommodation. These services can assist with affordable accommodation and/or transport to treatment centres.

Accommodation Duffy House Interstate Patient Travel DUFFY Assistance Scheme Cancer Council NSW www.health.act.gov.au (IPTAS) Accommodation Service 02 6244 3774 ACT Health Cancer Council NSW Provides accommodation less www.health.act.gov. www.cancercouncil.com.au/ than 10kms from the hospital for au/public-information/ accommodation regional patients and their carers consumers/interstate- who are having cancer treatment patient-travel Provides a list of accommodation at Canberra Hospital. 02 6205 5868 options near the cancer treatment centres in NSW and ACT as Leukaemia Foundation Provides financial assistance well as access to reduced towards accommodation and room rates at AccorHotels, for John James Village travel costs to ACT residents cancer patients and their family Rusden Street who need to travel interstate or carers needing to travel for GARRAN for medical treatment. cancer treatment. www.leukaemia.org.au 02 6215 7002 Interstate Patient Travel Canberra Hospital and Accommodation Residences Provides accommodation for Assistance Scheme patients affected by leukaemia, (IPTAAS) Canberra Hospital lymphoma, multiple myeloma and GARRAN NSW Government related blood disorders and their www.health.act.gov.au families who have to travel from www.enable.health.nsw.gov. 02 6244 2358 au/services/iptaas interstate for treatment. Provides accommodation for 1800 478 227 Rotary Cottage interstate patients and their Provides financial assistance carers attending Canberra Calvary Public Hospital Bruce towards accommodation and Hospital for treatment. BRUCE travel costs to NSW residents www.calvarycare.org.au who need to travel lengthy 02 6201 6111 distances for specialist medical treatment that is not Provides accommodation for available locally. patients and/or their carers attending Calvary Public Hospital Bruce for treatment from interstate.

16 Accommodation and transport Transport Flexible Bus Service Transport Canberra Community Services 02 6205 3555 Most community services in the www.transport.act.gov.au ACT provide transportation to A free bus service designed medical appointments as well as specifically for residents such a range of other services. Contact as the aged or people with a your local service for more mobility difficulty which operates information. off a basic timetable, picking up Belconnen Community Service residents from their home and www.bcsact.com.au taking them to local community 02 6264 0200 service providers such as local shopping centres and hospitals. Gungahlin – Communities@Work Bookings essential. https://commsatwork.org/ 02 6126 9090 Leukaemia Foundation Northside Community Service www.leukaemia.org.au http://northside.asn.au/ 1800 555 021 02 6257 2255 Provides people affected by Southside – leukaemia, lymphoma, multiple Community Services#1 myeloma and related blood http://communityservices1.org/ disorders and their families 02 6126 4700 with courtesy transport to and Tuggeranong – from treatment. Communities@Work https://commsatwork.org/ 02 6126 9090 Weston Creek – Communities@Work https://commsatwork.org/ 02 6126 9090 Woden Community Service www.wcs.org.au 02 6282 2644 Queanbeyan – Valmar Community Transport Services www.valmar.com.au 02 6297 2720

Accommodation and transport 17 Support at home

While recovering from treatment, you will often be at home, and may find daily tasks difficult to manage. Services such as at home medical care, meal delivery and cleaning are available to assist you during this time.

Community Assistance and Duo Services Australia Mummy’s Wish Support Program (CASP) www.duo.org.au www.mummyswish.org.au ACT Government 02 6287 2870 [email protected] www.health.act.gov.au Provides a full range of support Supports Mums with cancer who 02 6205 9822 at home and in the community are pregnant or have at least An ACT Government program that for children/ young people with one child 12 years or under. Can provides short term support with disabilities and their families, coordinate practical support such a range of services for people and adults with disabilities, frail aged as house cleaning and meal their carers who are finding daily people and people with mental preparation as well as some living activities difficult due to a health conditions living in the financial assistance. health issue. Search for ‘CASP’. ACT, to enable them to live in My Aged Care Community Services their own home. www.myagedcare.gov.au Most community services in the Linen Service 1800 200 422 ACT provide a range of services Duo Services Australia A national online and telephone to support you at home. Contact www.duo.org.au your local service for more service providing information 02 6287 2870 information. See page 16 for about aged care services as well contact details. Delivery of clean linen and pick- as a range of services that assist up of soiled linen from the home older people in their own home. Community Options Inc for ACT residents who require www.communityoptions.com.au support and assistance with Equipment and home 02 6295 8800 continence management. modification Provides a full range of in-home Meals on Wheels Cancer treatment or progression support and community based Australian Red Cross ACT of cancer may mean that you support services for people with will need to modify your home a chronic illness or disability and www.redcross.org.au 02 6287 4311 or purchase special equipment. their carers. Most patients who require home Delivers a range of healthy and Conder House Laundry modification will be referred to nutritious frozen and fresh meals & Linen Service an occupational therapist or to the home. physiotherapist who can advise www.conderhouse.com.au you on suitable equipment and/or 0427 929 946 modifications to meet your needs. A door to door laundry, linen The following list of contacts may and ironing service. Also sells a also be helpful. range of waterproof bed linen and disability products.

18 Support at home ACT Equipment Scheme Mobility Matters Home nursing services ACT Health Village Creek Centre 21 Townsville Street 37 Kingsmill Street FYSHWICK Community Nursing KAMBAH www.mobilitymatters.com.au ACT Health www.health.act.gov.au 02 6280 7244 02 6207 9977 02 6207 0658 Provides a large range of Offers a full range of nursing care Provides financial support equipment for sale or hire. in the home. to people with long term disabilities for the purchase and Red Cross Personal Alarm Private Home Nursing maintenance of equipment to Service Agencies assist them to live at home and in Australian Red Cross ACT A number of private agencies the community. www.redcross.org.au provide home nursing services. 02 6234 7600 Chemists An internet search for home A service for those living alone nursing will help you find Most chemists provide a range of or with a frail partner who may services. equipment for loan or purchase. be at risk of accident or sudden Equipment Loans Service illness that provides access to Other practical support emergency help, 24 hours a day, and information ACT Health Village Creek Centre every day of the year. 37 Kingsmill Street COTA ACT KAMBAH Technical Aid to the Disabled Hughes Community Centre www.health.act.gov.au (ACT) Ltd Wisdom St 02 6207 0658 Grant Cameron Community HUGHES Provides short term loan of Centre www.cotaact.org.au equipment used to aid recovery 27 Mulley Street 02 6282 3777 and home care. HOLDER Provides a range of services for www.technicalaidact.org.au people aged over 50 including the Independent Living Centre 02 6287 4290 Seniors Information Line, Housing 24 Parkinson Street Designs and constructs aids for Options Advisory Service, ACT WESTON people experiencing disabilities Seniors Card as well as a number www.health.act.gov.au/ILC where required aids are not of relevant publications. 02 6205 1900 commercially available. Provides expert information and Gather My Crew advice on equipment, building www.gathermycrew.org design and resources for A free online rostering tool that individuals and their carers to has been developed specifically to assist people to live at home. support people in crisis, to enable them to ask for and coordinate the practical help they need.

Support at home 19 Prostheses and personal care aids

The symptoms and treatment of cancer can sometimes result in needing regular medication, a prosthesis or personal care aids. The list below includes services that provide information, products and support as well as reimbursement schemes.

Breast prostheses Available from the Canberra Medicine information branch via email or directly from services Knitted Knockers Australia. NPS Medicinewise Colleen’s Continence services www.nps.org.au 22 Garran Place Provides free, independent, GARRAN Continence Service evidence-based information on www.colleens.com.au ACT Health medicines, health conditions and 02 6285 1311 02 6207 9977 medical tests. Provides breast prosthesis fittings, www.health.act.gov.au mastectomy bras and swimwear Stoma services Provides assessment and for women who have undergone management of bladder and surgery for breast cancer. ACT and Districts Stoma bowel control, as well as pelvic Association External Breast Prostheses floor issues. 1 Moore Street Reimbursement Program National Continence Helpline CANBERRA CITY Medicare Australia https://actstoma.net.au/ Continence Foundation of www.medicareaustralia.gov.au 02 6205 1055 Australia 13 20 11 www.continence.org.au Provides support, assistance and Provides reimbursement of 1800 330 066 stoma related supplies to people up to $400 for both new and in Canberra and the adjoining Provides free, confidential advice replacement external breast region who have a stoma. about bladder and bowel control, prostheses to all eligible women plus local referrals, brochures and who have had a mastectomy as a Stoma Therapy Clinics product information. result of breast cancer. ACT Health www.health.act.gov.au Knitted Knockers Australia Lymphoedema services 02 6207 9977 (Canberra branch) ACT Lymphoedema Service Provides care and advice to http://knittedknockersaustralia. patients and carers on all aspects com/ Calvary Hospital of stoma management. knittedknockersaustcanberra@ BRUCE gmail.com www.calvarycare.org.au 02 6201 6190 A volunteer group that provides free, hand knitted, 100% cotton Provides treatment, support breast prostheses to women and education on all aspects of who have had a mastectomy. lymphoedema.

20 Prostheses and personal care aids Physical health and wellbeing

Cancer and its treatments can cause a range of symptoms and side effects that are different for each person. Looking after yourself and seeking support to manage the changes to your health will enhance your quality of life and aid recovery. There are many services available to assist you maintain and improve your physical health and wellbeing.

ACT Lymphoedema Service Each person will be assessed Oncology Massage Limited Calvary Hospital and given an exercise program www.oncologymassagetraining. BRUCE based on their abilities and com.au www.calvarycare.org.au treatment level. 0416 004 616 02 6201 6190 Casting For Recovery Trains qualified therapists to Provides treatment, support www.castingforrecovery.org.au massage people with a history and education on all aspects of 0430 450 060 or a diagnosis of cancer. A list of lymphoedema. these therapists is available on Provide a free fly fishing weekend their website. Exercise During Cancer retreat for women recovering Group from breast cancer treatment. Road to Recovery

Exercise Physiology Department Dragons Abreast Canberra YMCA Chifley Health and Canberra Hospital Wellness Centre GARRAN https://dragonsabreast.com.au/ 9/71 MacLaurin St www.health.act.gov.au groups/placedetails/1 CHIFLEY 02 6244 2573 [email protected] https://canberra.ymca.org.au/ A free individualised, exercise Welcomes all breast cancer 02 6281 0124 program run by exercise survivors, regardless of age, An exercise based cancer physiologists for people gender, sporting ability or fitness rehabilitation program designed undergoing cancer treatment or for dragon boating for fitness, for both cancer survivors who have completed treatment. fun and camaraderie on Lake and those who are currently Referral can be made by a GP Burley Griffin. undertaking cancer treatment. or specialist. Look Good...Feel Better It is conducted in a safe community environment and Cancer Rehabilitation http://lgfb.org.au/ run by an accredited Exercise Faculty of Health Clinic 1800 650 960 Physiologist. University of Canberra A two hour workshop dedicated BRUCE to teaching women techniques to www.canberra.edu.au help restore their appearance and 02 6201 5843 self-image during chemotherapy This group exercise session and radiation treatment. focuses on improving fitness Information is available from the and functional ability for chemotherapy nurse or social cancer patients and survivors. worker at each hospital.

Physical health and wellbeing 21 vitalyoga Screening services Fertility CHIFLEY www.vitalyoga.com.au BreastScreen ACT CanTeen- Maybe Later Baby 02 6281 0335 ACT Health www.canteen.org.au/resource/ www.health.act.gov.au Runs gentle yoga for recovery A guide to fertility for young 13 20 50 after serious illness or cancer people with cancer. treatment classes, to regain Provides free mammography strength, flexibility and peace screening for women from the Fertility and Cancer – of mind. age of 40. Available at the City, Cancer Council Phillip and Belconnen Health www.actcancer.org Diet Centres. 13 11 20 People receiving treatment at any Cancer Council – Cervical A Cancer Council guide to fertility of the major hospitals in Canberra Screening for people affected by cancer. can ask to speak to a dietitian View online or order a free copy www.cervicalscreening.org.au during their stay. by calling 13 11 20. A Cancer Council website that Community Care Nutrition explains the changes to the Holiday break Service new national cervical cancer accommodation ACT Health screening program. www.health.act.gov.au Ronald McDonald Family Retreat 02 6207 9977 National Bowel Cancer Fiona Lodge Screening Program BATEMANS BAY NSW A community based service for www.cancerscreening.gov.au/ www.rmhc.org.au adults 25 years and over that 1300 135 848 offers dietary assessments, bowel advice or counselling for a Offers free holiday National Cervical Screening accommodation for one week in range of medical conditions, Program including cancer. fully equipped units on the beach www.cancerscreening.gov.au/ for families of children who are Nutrition and Dietetics Clinic bowel. affected by cancer or another life Faculty of Health Clinic threatening illness. University of Canberra BRUCE www.canberra.edu.au 02 6201 5843 A student led clinic that provides a range of dietary services including for people with cancer, at a minimal cost.

22 Physical health and wellbeing The OTIS Foundation Colleen’s www.otisfoundation.org.au 22 Garran Place 03 5444 1184 GARRAN www.colleens.com.au Provides free accommodation 02 6285 1311 and an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing time of sanctuary in a Sells a range of wigs, turbans, beautiful country environment for hats and scarves those living with breast cancer. Accommodation is located in HeadsUp@Kippax Thredbo and country Victoria. 2/12-16 Hardwick Cres HOLT Yurana Cancer Kids Holiday www.headsup.net.au Homes 02 6254 4403 ULLADULLA NSW Specialises in assisting all women www.yuranahomes.com.au who have hair loss. Sells a range 02 4454 1700 of hats, turbans, berets, beanies, Offers free holiday scarves & embellishments. Open accommodation for families of Tuesday to Friday 10am – 4pm. children affected by cancer or other serious illness.

Wigs and other headwear

Cancer Council ACT Wig Service Cancer Council ACT Unit 1/173 Strickland Crescent DEAKIN 02 6257 9999 Provides wigs, turbans, hats and other headwear for sale at affordable prices. Open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 4.00pm.

Physical health and wellbeing 23 Emotional support

You may find that you are dealing with a wide range of emotions after a cancer diagnosis. Finding ways to manage your feelings and reactions is important to your physical and emotional wellbeing. Many people with cancer find that talking to a professional counsellor can be helpful. Others find comfort in a cancer support group, or talking to an individual who has had cancer themselves. Carers of people with cancer may find many of these services helpful. Carers can also check the entries under Support for Carers.

Counselling services Cancer Psychosocial Service Lifeline Canberra ACT Health www.act.lifeline.org.au Better Access Initiative – Canberra Region Cancer Centre 13 11 14 Medicare GARRAN A free telephone counselling 02 6174 8444 http://www.health.gov.au/ and support service available to mentalhealth-betteraccess Social workers and psychologists people of all ages, 24 hours a day Provides Medicare subsidies for provide practical, emotional and seven days a week. appointments with mental health crisis support to cancer patients Mensline Australia specialists. Requires a referral and their carers attending the from a GP. Canberra Region Cancer Centre. www.mensline.org.au 1300 78 99 78 Cancer Counselling Service Catholic Care Canberra and Goulburn A national telephone support ACT Health service for men with family 57 Hicks St Phillip Health Centre or relationship concerns. Also RED HILL PHILLIP available to women or family www.catholiccare.cg.org.au Belconnen Health Centre members concerned about a 02 6295 4300 BELCONNEN male family member. It provides www.health.act.gov.au Provides quality counselling a confidential counselling 02 6207 9977 services to the Canberra service 24 hours a day, seven Provides free psychological, community. days a week. social and practical support and Kids Helpline counselling for adult cancer patients, their families and carers. www.kidshelp.com.au 1800 551 800 Anonymous, confidential telephone and online counselling for young people aged from 5 to 18 years, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

24 Emotional support Relationships Australia There are a range of support Canberra and Region Cancer Council groups operating in the ACT that support groups www.racr.relationships.org.au are not run by Cancer Council 1300 364 277 ACT. These groups are either Cancer of the Lung led by community members Offers a wide range of and Mesothelioma and /or health professionals relationship counselling services Support Group and the views expressed by for individuals, couples and Canberra Region Cancer these support groups are the families. Services are for all Centre views of the support groups members of the community, GARRAN and are not necessarily those of regardless of religion, age, cancer.information@ Cancer Council ACT. Below is a gender, sexual orientation, lifestyle actcancer.org list of support groups that have choice, cultural background or 02 6244 3895 provided contact details to Cancer economic circumstances. 02 6257 9999 Council ACT. We recommend you contact the group directly to Social Work and Psychology A Cancer Council ACT decide whether it may be suitable Department facilitated support group for people with cancer of for your needs. Calvary Hospital the lung or mesothelioma 20–30 Chat Canberra BRUCE and/or their families and www.calvarycare.org.au friends. Meets the third Location TBA 02 6201 6111 Tuesday of each month from www.leukaemia.org.au Provides counselling services 10am–12pm. 02 6215 7002 for people affected by cancer Cancer Council Telephone A support group for people in who are inpatients of Calvary Support Groups their 20’s and 30’s affected by Health Care. www.cancercouncil.com.au leukaemia, lymphoma or a related [email protected] blood condition. Meets four times Cancer support groups 1300 755 632 a year. Please call the Leukaemia Foundation for more details Cancer support groups offer a A range of Cancer Council before attending for the first time. safe place for people with cancer facilitated telephone support to talk with others who have groups. Call, email or visit ACT Brain Tumour Network had similar experiences. Support the website for a list of groups may offer emotional, current groups. 1800 857 221 social and some practical A network of people from support as well as information on Canberra and the surrounding cancer and related issues. Each districts with an interest in all support group is unique in what types of brain tumours (central they provide. nervous system tumours). Meets on the 4th Sunday of each month at 11am at the Yarralumla Southern Cross Club. Please call to confirm.

Emotional support 25 Canberra Blood Cancer Canberra NET Support Group Bosom Buddies Education and Support Unicorn Foundation Pearce Community Centre Group www.unicornfoundation.org.au PEARCE Leukaemia Foundation 1300 287 363 www.bosombuddies.org.au John James Village A support group for people with 0406 376 500 Rusden St neuroendocrine tumours (NET) A group of women who have all GARRAN and/or their family members experienced breast cancer and www.leukaemia.org.au and carers. Meets once a month who are committed to supporting 02 6215 7002 in Canberra on a Friday from women from the time of diagnosis A support group for people 10am-12pm. Please contact through treatment. affected by leukaemia, lymphoma the Unicorn Foundation for or a related blood condition. more details. Cancer Connect Meets the second Tuesday of Cancer Council ACT Prostate Cancer Support each month. Please call the www.actcancer.org Group – ACT Region Inc. Leukaemia Foundation for more 13 11 20 details before attending for the http://prostate-cancer-support- A Cancer Council telephone peer first time. act.net/ support service that puts people 02 6290 1984 Lung Cancer Telephone in touch with others who have Support Group Provides support to men had a similar cancer experience. diagnosed with prostate cancer Lung Foundation and their families through Cancer Council Online http://lungcancernetwork.com.au/ personal contacts, coffee Community 1800 654 301 mornings and monthly meetings www.cancercouncil.com.au/oc A telephone support group which are open to all. Visit Cancer Council Online Community open to people with any stage of the website or call for more is an online platform for people lung cancer. It meets three times information and meeting times. affected by cancer to connect, a month. Other cancer support share experiences and find Melanoma Patients Australia information and support in a Canberra Support Group ACT Specialist Breast Care safe forum. Nurses www.melanomapatients.org.au Cancer Council ACT 1300 884 450 Calvary Hospital Education Programs BRUCE A support group for melanoma Cancer Council ACT [email protected] patients their families and friends www.actcancer.org 02 6201 6944 that provides information, support 02 6257 9999 and fun. It meets once a month Offer support and referral for Cancer Council ACT runs free at Canberra Southern Cross newly diagnosed breast cancer education programs covering a Club, Woden, please call for patients. Patients may be range of topics, for people with more details. referred by specialists, GPs or cancer, their family and friends. by self referral.

26 Emotional support Cancer Specialist Nurses Dreams2live4 Canberra Region Cancer Centre www.dreams2live4.com.au GARRAN 0400 914 375 acthealthnursecarecoordinators@ A program that realises the act.gov.au dreams of people living with Adolescents and young adults metastatic cancer. and sarcoma 02 6174 5788 Leukaemia Foundation Advanced breast cancer www.leukaemia.org.au 02 6244 3896 02 6215 7000 Gastrointestinal cancer Provides emotional and practical 02 6174 5269 support for people affected by leukaemia, lymphoma, multiple Gynaecological, brain and myeloma and related blood CNS cancers disorders and their families. 02 6244 4416 OvCan (ACT and Region) Haematological cancers 02 6244 3447 Hughes Baptist Church 10 Groom St Head and neck cancers HUGHES 02 6244 3446 0450 962 058 or 02 6292 0987 Lung cancer and mesothelioma Aims to raise the awareness 02 6244 3895 of ovarian cancer, to provide Lymphoma information on ovarian cancer 02 6174 8520 to the community and medical Melanoma and skin cancer profession and to support people 02 6714 8500 affected by the disease. Meets the first Wednesday of each Prostate cancer month, from 7.30pm–9.00pm. 02 6244 3897 Please call for more information. Urological cancers 02 6174 5964 Specialist nurses who help people diagnosed with cancer navigate their way through the health care system. They can provide information and education Can’t find what you’re looking for? and are a point of contact when Call 13 11 20 or email [email protected] you are not sure who to turn to for information. for assistance.

Emotional support 27 Bereavement services

If the person you are caring for dies, you may be feeling a range of emotions. These emotions are normal and may come and go and change in intensity over time. Support groups (face-to-face, telephone or online) or counselling can help you get through times when your grief seems overwhelming.

Canberra Grief Centre Community Specialist Solace ACT 1 Geils Court Palliative Care Services www.solace.org.au/act/ DEAKIN Clare Holland House 02 6297 1052 www.canberragriefcentre.com.au Menindee Drive A self help group for widows and Sonia 0409 966 515 BARTON widowers of all ages. Assists Mandy 0401 344 577 www.calvarycare.org.au bereaved people to adjust to 02 6264 7300 Provides grief and bereavement their loss. The phone number is counselling as well as Provides bereavement support or answered by O’Rourke Funeral bereavement support groups. counselling to families or friends Directors. of patients of the Palliative Care Cancer Counselling Service Service. Telephone Grief Support ACT Health National Association for Loss and Phillip Health Centre Griefline Community and Grief (NSW) Cnr Corinna and Keltie Streets Family Services www.nalag.org.au PHILLIP https://griefline.org.au 0439 922 201 1300 845 745 Belconnen Health Centre A Sydney-based telephone support 56 Lathlain Street A national loss and grief service operated by trained BELCONNEN telephone counselling service. volunteers who provide information www.health.act.gov.au Provides anonymous support and referral to people experiencing 02 6207 9977 and specialist counselling to loss and grief. By appointment Provides bereavement counselling individuals and families. Online through leaving a message on their for families and carers who have counselling is also available. answering system. lost someone to cancer. Life After Loss Telephone The Compassionate Friends CanTeen ACT and Southern Support Group ACT and Queanbeyan NSW Division Cancer Council www.compassionatefriendsact.org 7–11 Barry Drive www.cancercouncil.com.au 02 6286 6134 / 02 6287 3350 [email protected] TURNER Part of a world-wide self-help 1300 755 632 www.canteen.org.au organisation offering friendship and 02 6101 2207 A facilitated telephone support understanding to bereaved parents, Provides a mutual peer support group for people whose loved siblings and grand-parents. Offering network of young people living one has died from a cancer support to families who are grieving with cancer, this includes related illness. The group runs in the death of a child of any age, bereaved siblings and offspring of a ‘closed’ six-session format. Call from any cause. All bereaved family people with cancer. or e-mail to register your interest. members are welcome.

28 Bereavement services CANCER SERVICES ACT SERVICES CANCER Cancer Services ACT A directory of support services for people affected by cancer in the ACT

For cancer information and support call

For information and support on cancer and cancer related issues call 13 11 20 Email [email protected] 2018 July 13 11 20 Visit www.actcancer.org www.actcancer.org