Close
Accessibility
Search Find Information
Find information & support Donate now

Cancer Support group

Cancer support at Canteen 

At Canteen, we offer group experiences designed specifically for young people aged 12–25 who are impacted by cancer - whether it’s their own diagnosis or that of a parent or sibling. The aim of these is for people to come together and share experiences, offer emotional support, and feel less alone. 

At Canteen, support is delivered through meaningful connections - whether it’s at face-to-face events, through structured online programs, or via our 24/7 online community, Canteen Connect. Wherever you or your loved one's are in the cancer journey - from diagnosis and treatment to life beyond cancer or grief - we’re here to walk alongside you. You’re never alone.

Wherever someone is in their cancer journey - from diagnosis and treatment to life beyond cancer or grief - Canteen is there to support young people every step of the way.

Benefits of joining a cancer support group

Young people impacted by cancer may sometimes feel that their family and friends don't really get what they are going through. However, Canteen offers an environment where they can find support from people who understand how they feel, because they are dealing with similar stuff.  

There are a range of reasons why cancer support from Canteen can help, regardless of whether they are impacted by their diagnosis or a loved ones.

  • Feel less isolated by connecting with others who truly understand 
  • Sharing their story in a safe, judgment-free space 
  • Learn coping strategies and getting emotional support 
  • Building friendships that last beyond the program/group they attend 

Canteen’s support services are designed to meet young people where they are - emotionally, physically, and mentally. 

Block Content

Canteen group events & programs 

Our face-to-face events and camp-style programs bring young people together in fun, relaxed environments. They will meet others who “get it,” take part in creative and recreational activities, and build strong peer connections.  

Whether it’s a weekend retreat or a local meetup, these group experiences are all about connection, support, and shared understanding, and cater for people who have a range of cancer experiences. What's more, 99% of people would recommend us to a friend dealing with cancer, which shows that our services make a meaningful impact in helping young people deal with cancer.

Check out this quote below from a young person who attended Thrive, a program which is aimed at people who have completed active cancer treatment. 

“I would do it again in a heartbeat.. The biggest thing that stood out to me was how validated I felt actually speaking to people who had the same experiences. [It was] the most comforting experience I could have had.”

a group of young people impacted by cancer gathering together as part of a grief and cancer support group at canteen
Items
young person accessing an online cancer support group on Canteen Connect through their phone

Canteen Connect: An online cancer support group 

Canteen Connect is our safe, moderated online community where young people aged between 12 and 25 impacted by cancer can chat, share, and support each other - anytime, anywhere.

Whether someone is at home, in hospital, or just needs someone to talk to - Canteen Connect is there 24/7. 

Grieving a loved one 

Canteen's support extends to all stages of the cancer journey, from diagnosis and treatment, to life beyond cancer and grief. Getting the right support when someone in the family has passed away is so important, but asking for help can be tricky. That's where Canteen comes in. 

For young people grieving the loss of a loved one to cancer, Canteen offers grief support groups through programs like Good Grief, and via our 24/7 online community Canteen Connect. Support is available through connection with others who share the experience of grief. Opportunities exist to engage with young people navigating loss, fostering mutual understanding and healing.

Canteen also provides a range of written resources to help navigate the complex emotions and practical challenges that can arise during times of loss. Whether figuring out how to talk about a loved one’s death or seeking emotional support in the aftermath, these resources are designed to offer guidance and reassurance when it's needed most.  

Additional support beyond groups

Canteen’s support goes far beyond connection through group experiences. Whether it's practical advice, emotional support, or simply a place to share with others who get it, Canteen offers: 

  • One-on-one online counselling with trained staff who can offer tailored support
  • Support for parents and carers, because research shows that when parents cope better with cancer and communicate openly, their children are likely to experience less distress and anxiety
  • A range of resources which are informative and aimed at both young people and parents/carers
  • Short-form articles to support young people as they navigate the challenges of cancer, regardless of how they are impacted by it

 

Frequently asked questions

Collapsible field
Title
Can I join a cancer support group if I’m a sibling of someone with cancer?
Description

Canteen's programs, events and counselling are aimed at all young people between 12 and 25 who either have cancer themselves, or are impacted by the diagnosis of a sibling. Click here to learn more about how Canteen can help siblings. 

For young people impacted by a friends cancer, check out of resources here.

Title
Can I join a cancer support group if I’m a parent of someone with cancer?
Description

While Canteen services are primarily aimed at young people, if you are a parent/carer seeking support, click here to learn more about the services available. We have a range of resources, as well as Cancer Hub, a one-stop shop for families impacted by cancer. 

Title
Are Canteen’s support groups free?
Description

Yes, all Canteen services come at no cost.

Title
How do I join Canteen Connect?
Description

Young people aged between 12-25 can sign up to Canteen Connect here. Click here to learn more about what Canteen Connect can offer. 

Title
How do I find out what support is available to me locally?
Description

Canteen Connect runs a range of in-person events across the country. Use the filtering options to see what's happening in your state of residence. There is also a number of online events, which anyone across the country can dial into.