Blignault Ilse, McDonnell Louise, Aspinall Diana, Yates Robyn, Reath Jennifer
Centre for Health Research, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia.
Department of General Practice, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia.
Aust J Prim Health. 2017 Sep;23(4):391-396. doi: 10.1071/PY16067.
This consumer-led research investigated the client experiences and the individual and community benefits of a community-based cancer support service operating in a regional setting. The study included cross-sectional surveys, focus group discussions and key-informant interviews. In total, 114 clients, 28 carers and 20 therapists were surveyed; three client focus groups were conducted and five directors and staff were interviewed. For many clients and carers, the warm welcome experienced at first contact sets the tone for a long-term association with the organisation. The feeling of being cared for extends to the broader community and living with cancer becomes more than survivorship. Integral to the organisational model are opportunity (second-hand) shops that enable subsidised complementary therapies and other services, offer a way of giving back and assist disadvantaged community members. The organisational model has benefits, not only for people living with cancer and their families, but also for the wider community.
