Getting ready for Living with Secondary Breast Cancer in-person groups

Do I need to bring anything?

No, just get as much out of the group as you can and participate as much or as little as you like.

What can I expect?

These groups are relaxed and offer time to talk about what’s on your mind with others who understand from around the UK. Each group is facilitated by one of our experienced counsellors who will welcome you when you join.

We encourage you to share your experiences with people who'll understand what you're going through. But if you don’t want to share anything, that's completely fine, and you can just listen. Have a look at this short video where Paula talks about her experiences coming to a group for the first time and why she finds it so helpful. Our in-person groups aren't group therapy session, and we don’t offer individual medical care or advice.

If you feel daunted about attending for the first time you may find it useful to have a chat with the group facilitator before you attend. If you'd like to speak to them, please let us know by contacting us on secondaryservices@breastcancernow.org or 0345 077 1893. They will call you from a withheld number and if they are unable to reach you on the first try, they will attempt to call you two more times.

How many people will be at the group?

The groups typically have around 6 to 12 people for both in-person and online sessions. But sometimes have more, sometimes less. 

What topics will we cover?

We often talk about everyday issues and how secondary breast cancer impacts daily life. Sometimes, we cover themes that may be difficult. But our counsellor is there to support everyone.

Every three months or so, we invite an expert speaker to talk about a topic which is relevant for people living with secondary breast cancer. Topics include things like fatigue, exercise, managing side effects and relationships and communication.

Are the groups confidential?

Yes. Our groups are a confidential, safe space for you to be as open as you like. Everyone in the group will be reminded to keep the discussions confidential.

Is the venue accessible?

Our groups are in venues with easy road links and bus routes.

All venues are accessible with:

• Accessible toilets
• Car parking on-site or close by with disabled spaces
• Located on the ground floor or the first floor via a lift

If you need more support from us to take part in our services, we’ll do our best to make reasonable adjustments. If you need further assistance, contact us at secondaryservices@breastcancernow.org or 03450771893.

Is there financial help accessing the service?

Our services are always free, thanks to our generous supporters. But we know that using one of our services might still cost you money, like travel costs. We’re committed to supporting everyone affected by breast cancer to live well. So, if you need help covering the costs of using our services, we’re here. Please contact secondaryservices@breastcancernow.org and ask about our access fund.

What do other people say about our Living with Secondary Breast Cancer group?

Do I have to attend every single group?

No. You can come to as many or as few as you'd like to. We totally understand that you might not feel up to coming along for whatever reason. If you could let us know that’d be great, but don’t worry if you can’t. We won’t get in touch to ask where you were.

Can I bring someone?

Living with Secondary Breast Cancer groups offer a confidential space just for people who are living with secondary breast cancer to share this experience with others in a similar position.

Will my employer give me time off to attend?

If you're working, your employer should allow you time to attend. Please contact us if you're experiencing any difficulties, and we can provide you with a letter to give to them.

Are there refreshments?

We provide tea, coffee, water and biscuits. If you have any dietary requirements, let us know when you register so we can make sure we cater for them.

Will a healthcare professional be there?

We don’t typically invite healthcare professionals to the groups. The sessions are an opportunity for you to speak openly with people who are in a similar situation.

We may invite them to one of our quarterly expert speaker sessions or ask if they'd like to observe a session so they can promote the service. We’d let you know before through your monthly invitation email.

Occasionally, a member of our services delivery team might also attend a session to see how the group is getting on and to gather any feedback.

I'm aged 45 or under and living with secondary breast cancer – will there be others my age at the group?

It depends on the group. Sometimes there’ll be a few other younger women, and sometimes there might not be any. You’re more than welcome to attend any group.

If you'd like to attend a group just for younger women, we also hold a Living with Secondary Breast Cancer group for Younger Women online. It's a chance to meet women you're age who are going through similar experiences.

I have another question, can you help?

If you have more questions, please reach out to our Living with Secondary Breast Cancer team at secondaryservices@breastcancernow.org or call us on 0345 077 1893