We are here to support people with cancer and their whānau across Taranaki. We are part of the Central Districts Division of the Cancer Society.
Annual Report 2023
Updated Cancer Society services ongoing
As we move into a world without the mandates and other Covid-19 restrictions, clients and any other visitors to our centres will not need to wear a mask. Although, if you would like to wear one then you are welcome to.
We understand that those affected by cancer may still feel vulnerable and prefer to either wear a mask or have us wear a mask if our Supportive Care team visit them at home. We understand this and our friendly team will check with clients which they would prefer before visiting. Masks are still required in a hospital or health provider setting.
Our Supportive Care team will not need to be tested for Covid-19 if they come into contact with another person who has Covid-19, however, if they become unwell and show symptoms then they are required to do a test before they come into work and if they test positive isolate in line with the government guidelines.
As always, we are here for anyone with any cancer regardless of everything else, so please do connect with your local centre should you or a loved one need support.
Available services
Clients and any other visitors will not need to wear a mask to use a Cancer Society shuttle or our Volunteer Driving Service or to visit our centre. Although, if you would like to wear one then you are welcome to.
Group sessions have now resumed. Massage and other therapy continues. Please check with us for details and availability.
What we do
The Taranaki Cancer Society has been open for the past 80 years. Our modern, eco-friendly centre in New Plymouth is nestled not too far from Mount Taranaki.
Cancer is now the leading cause of death in New Zealand. As we grow older, the likelihood of developing cancer increases.
Each year in Taranaki, there are over 600 people diagnosed with cancer.
Every day at the Cancer Society we help all people with any cancer, their families, whānau and friends to deal with a cancer diagnosis. We advocate for cancer patients, providing a voice on all kinds of issues, including cancer prevention, screening, early detection and treatment. We support people during treatment and get them well again.
We do this through the wide range of core services in supportive care, information and local support groups and connecting people online. We develop and run community health promotion and cancer prevention programmes to keep people well.
We provide a range of free support services for people with cancer and their family/caregivers. We help get people through their cancer diagnosis.
- General cancer support visiting service and carer relief.
- Women’s support service & support groups (North & South Taranaki).
- General men’s cancer support group.
- CanTALK lunches - (North & South Taranaki).
- ‘Prostate Awareness is a Life Saver’ (PALS) group.
- Transport – including twice-weekly shuttle service to Palmerston North and volunteer drivers within Taranaki.
- Living well with cancer education.
- Host and support “Look Good Feel Better” workshops.
- Support volunteer training.
- One-on-one support, patient advocacy and advice.
- Emergency financial assistance via grants
- Complementary therapy – reiki, oncology massage, and yoga.
- A listening ear for patients, caregivers, whānau and family members.
- Hat, books and wig library.
- Creative classes.
- Counselling.
Accommodation
If you have to travel away from home for treatment, we can help you with a place to stay.
Find out more
Need transport to treatment?
We have a team of dedicated volunteers who can help you get to your hospital appointments.
Find out more
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