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Lived Experience library - need to do

Work with anyone impacted by cancer diagnosis to help improve cancer services in the North East and North Cumbria.

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We'd love you to be a part of what we do!

Join us in driving innovation and enhancing cancer service in the Region! Your donation fuels our mission to elevate patient experiences and advance research in cancer treatment.

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Why Peer Support Matters

At Northern Cancer Voices, we believe no one should face cancer alone.
That’s why we run peer support groups for people affected by cancer — whether you’re living with cancer, recovering, caring for someone, or grieving a loss. These groups offer a safe, welcoming space to talk, listen, and connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through.

Connect With Others

Working with other organisations in the community we help connect people with the support they need.

More Than Just a Chat

Many people tell us they wish they’d found peer support sooner. These groups fill a vital gap that clinical or medical services often can’t:

  • A listening ear from someone who gets it
  • A safe spece to share experiences, fears, and small wins
  • Emotional support in a non-judgemental setting
  • Real connection with others who've walked a similar path

Whether it’s you first time or your fiftieth, you’ll be met with kindness, understanding, and a cuppa.

Working Together In The Community

We believe in joined-up support. That’s why we often work in partnership with:

  • Public Health teams
  • Social Prescribers and Link Workers
  • Hospitals, hospices, and cancer services
  • Community centres and local charities
  • Mentalhealth services and wellbeing hubs

This helps us connect with wider support, making sure they get the help they need – when they need it.

Come As You Are

You don’t need to be a ‘joiner’. You don’t have to talk if you don’t want to. Just show up – and be met with kindness, respect, and understanding.

Find more details and group Terms of Reference:

Terms of reference

What People Say

Don't just take our word for it, hear from people who have come along to peer support groups.
"It's the only place I can truly say how I feel."
Group Participant
"I didn't think I needed support until I came. Now I never miss it."
Carer and regular attendee
"I've made friends for life."
Person living with cancer

Host A Peer Support Group

Read below to find out more about what’s involved in hosting a peer support group and see whether you would be a good fit.

Skills And Qualities We're Looking For:

You don’t need formal qualifications, just:

  • Good listening and communication skills
  • Empathy and patience
  • A non-judgemental attitude
  • Reliability and commitment (even just once a month)
  • Lived experience of cancer is welcome, but not essential

Full guidance, resources, and support are provided. You’ll also have opportunities for training and to be part of a growing network of people passionate about making a difference.

What The Role Involves:

  • Welcoming people to the group and helping create a safe, inclusive space
  • Supporting conversations and encouraging peer-to-peer sharing
  • Signposting people to Northern Cancer Voices or partner services when needed
  • Working closely with staff or other volunteers - you're never alone in the role!

Could You Help Host a Peer Support Group?

We’re growing – and we need compassionate, reliable volunteers to help us run our peer support groups across the North.

Whether you’ve beed affectedby cancer yourself, have supported a loved one, or imply want to make a difference in your community – your time and empathy could change lives.

Interested in Volunteering?

We'd love to hear from you!

Let us know a bit about yourself, where you’re based, and why you’re interested.

Help us create more safe spaces for people who need them.

Because no one should face cancer alone.

Email us