A new research project will analyse the impact, health benefits and cost-effectiveness of support services provided to culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) people in the Illawarra affected by cancer.
Minister for Health Ryan Park announced $91,000 in new funding for the Sisters' Cancer Support Group (SCSG) to conduct evaluative research into its work with CALD communities, stakeholders, and partner organisations.
SCSG is a community based, not-for-profit, registered charity which provides support for women from multicultural communities who are affected by cancer.
The peer-led organisation works in partnership with health care providers and multicultural communities to promote cancer prevention strategies and screening, survivorship, healthy lifestyles and access to health services.
SCSG's advocacy helps ensure women affected by cancer receive health care, support and information in a culturally safe and inclusive way.
The Cancer Institute NSW, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Multicultural Community Council of Illawarra and the Wollongong City Council were pivotal in the establishment of SCSG as a community-based cancer support service and have assisted the group through their in-kind support, provision of funding and resources for nearly 10 years.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"The Sisters' Cancer Support Group is an important community organisation helping improve the quality of life of women from multicultural backgrounds who are affected by cancer."
"This funding will enable the Sisters' Cancer Support Group to better understand the impact they are having on the local community, which will help guide the group's ongoing work and future strategies."
"The Group is well-known and respected in the Illawarra and collaborates with health organisations, including Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Cancer Institute NSW."
Quotes attributable to Founder, Chair and Facilitator of Sisters' Cancer Support Group Mrs Nyan Thit Tieu:
"The Sisters' Cancer Support Group is deeply committed to advocating for and ensuring that people from multicultural communities feel safe and supported when accessing cancer services."
"Our support services are provided by trusted community members with lived experiences, ensuring that activities are inclusive, culturally and linguistically appropriate, and filled with joy."
"We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to reflect on and research the work we do and help the continuity and sustainability of this unique peer-led cancer support group for multicultural communities in the Illawarra and beyond."
Quotes attributable to NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO, Cancer Institute NSW Professor Tracey O'Brien AM:
"The Cancer Institute NSW is a proud partner of Sisters' Cancer Support Group and I congratulate and thank them for their exceptional work in supporting people from multicultural communities impacted by cancer."
"Reducing the inequitable cancer outcomes experienced by multicultural communities can only be achieved by listening to and partnering with passionate and trusted community organisations like Sisters' Cancer Support Group."
"We look forward to continuing to work with Thit and her incredible team of community champions to help support more people to live healthy lives and access culturally sensitive cancer care and support."
