Sources of support

There are many ways in which you can find emotional support.  From support groups to books and chatrooms the following list provides you with information about the types of support out there.  Just click on the orange links to find out more about the following sources of support. 

Health care professionals

You can talk to any of the health care professionals involved in you care.

They will help you find the support you need.

Consider:

• your GP
• your hospital specialist doctor or nurse
• district nurse
• any of the specialist nurses who may be visiting you at home e.g. Macmillan nurse, specialist palliative care community nurse
• your social worker
• your faith leader

Counselling and support groups

There are also trained counsellors and support groups which can offer you support.  

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

This website provides details of local counsellors, including those who have specialised training around cancer or other illnesses and those who may be able to provide free or low cost counselling or offer concessions.

Macmillan Cancer Support 

This website offers emotional support online  or via a helpline on .

You can also find information about other local organisations  and support groups

Support groups

Your District Nurse should be able to provide information about local support groups for people who have cancer or other diseases, or for carers.

Books, workshops and classes

Dying Matters

‘Dying to Know’  and other books are available from the Dying Matters website.

Look Good Feel Better

Look Good Feel Better is a cancer support charity that helps women manage the visible side effects of cancer treatment offering workshops in beauty and skincare 

Hospices

Some hospices offer art therapy sessions to help people express their feelings through paintings, sketches and other art forms.

If I Should Die

The If I Should Die website has a section aboutterminal illness, with support and advice for people who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and for those who want to support them.

Chat Rooms

Chat Rooms are a great place to ask for advice, share information, join in discussions and feel supported.  

The Alzheimer's Society

Talking point offers an online discussion forum for people with dementia and their carers. 

The Cancer Buddies Network

The Cancer Buddies Network offers an online support network.

Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support offers an online community for people affected by cancer. 

The Multiple Sclerosis Society

The Multiple Sclerosis Society offers discussion boards for patients and carers on various topics. 

OncoChat

OncoChat provides a chatroom  that offers support for cancer patients, their families and their friends.