Diversity and availability of support groups

OBJECTIVE: To explore the nature and structure of cancer support groups in the state of NSW Australia. METHOD: Support groups were identified through The Cancer Council NSW and a cancer consumer advocacy group. Participants (n=1791 were cancer support group coordinators who completed a cross-sectional audit assessing the group setting, facilitation, structure and difficulties experienced by groups. RESULTS: In NSW there has been a marked increase in the number of available cancer support groups. The main variations between groups related to their location, specificity, setting, leadership and structure. The most frequently identified objectives of groups were to provide psychological support and information. The main difficulty being faced by groups was poor attendance and referral. CONCLUSIONS: There is great diversity in the nature and structure of cancer support groups in NSW. There is an increased availability of cancer support groups in NSW. Mutual understanding between group coordinators and health professionals may help improve the usage and viability of cancer support groups.