Everyone knows someone who has had cancer and the many challenges they face. These challenges are always harder when you don’t have the support you need. CanCare is recruiting and training volunteers to support people with cancer in the St George area.

With one in four people living on their own many people don’t have the support they need at a time they need it most. As a CanCare volunteer you will be trained to provide one-on-one support to people with any type of cancer. A little bit of help can go a long way and the support provided as a volunteer CanCare Navigator will make a big difference to those who do not have the support they need.

There is evidence that a person with cancer who is well supported and has their needs identified and addressed has lower rates of anxiety, mood disorders, nausea, vomiting, pain, and a significantly greater knowledge about their cancer, their treatment and better outcomes.

Why not give some of your time to someone who really needs it. As a CanCare Navigator you will be invited to attend our FREE 2-day training program where you will learn more about cancer and the health system and develop the skills required for your new volunteer role.

Following the training you will use your knowledge of the disease process, the health care system, the professionals working in the health care system and the different services and resources available in the community to support a person with cancer and become part of their much-needed support network.

The role of the CanCare Navigator is varied, and tasks can include: finding the community services and support needed, completing complex medical forms; managing Medicare and PBS issues; finding transportation to treatment; connecting a person to support groups; organise or take a person on a social outing; sourcing financial assistance; organising domestic assistance; ordering medical equipment and supplies; providing back-up during a difficult time; guiding a person through the health care maize; and just being there when someone needs a friend.

As a volunteer CanCare Navigator you will be supported by the CanCare Program Manager, have access to further training opportunities offered through the Foundation and have peer support with other volunteers.

The role of the CanCare Navigator is flexible and you can volunteer at a time that is convenient for you and the person you are supporting. This is a rewarding role where your support, often for just a few hours a week can make a real difference.

Our next training program is being held on Tuesday 24th March at Mortdale RSL.