| Hello! |
| December 2024 As we approach the end of another remarkable year, we want to take a moment to reflect on the achievements of the work we collectively do, as Tackle Prostate Cancer and our incredible network of support groups. Together, we have made a significant difference in the lives of those living with and impacted by prostate cancer. Thank you for your passion, dedication, and the positive impact you continue to make in your communities.Highlights of 2024Growing Our Network This year, we welcomed over 20 new support groups to the Tackle family. Our membership stands today at 142. We have almost doubled the number of Peer Support groups across the UK since September 2020. It has been inspiring to see so many groups come together to share experiences, raise awareness, and provide invaluable support to those affected by prostate cancer. Raising Awareness Thanks to the incredible work of our member groups, Tackle Prostate Cancer participated in hundreds of awareness events across the UK. From local fairs to national campaigns, your efforts have helped reach thousands of people with life-saving messages about early diagnosis and the value of peer support. Trustees and Volunteers: A Heartfelt Thank You This year, we want to shine a spotlight on the exceptional contributions of some of our key trustees and volunteers: Aidan Adkins runs not one but three Peer Support Groups, including the successful online ‘Living Well with Advanced Prostate cancer group’. Aidan has been the driving force behind the Movember funded Peer Coaching/Navigation programme. Aidan has has always worked hard to raise awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and has become a leading voice in advocating for men with prostate cancer. In November, on the 9th anniversary of his diagnosis, he gave an impactful speech at a parliamentary event that gained attention in The Daily Telegraph. Aidan highlighted the urgent need for a national screening programme, bringing national awareness to the disparity in diagnosis rates and treatment access. His ability to combine personal experience with a compelling call to action has strengthened our campaigns and inspired both policymakers and the public to engage with this critical issue. You can hear his powerful speech from the Westminster event here Tony Collier has shown unwavering commitment to raising awareness of prostate cancer, particularly the importance of early diagnosis and peer support. Through his powerful public speaking, fundraising efforts, and community outreach, Tony has shared his own experiences to inspire action. His work highlights the life-changing impact of early intervention and the vital role of peer support networks in improving outcomes for men living with prostate cancer. Steve Allen has been a driving force in improving patient involvement through his leadership of the Patient Participation Group (PPG) for the National Prostate Cancer Audit (NPCA). Under Steve’s guidance, the PPG meets regularly to provide vital input into NPCA reports, including shaping last year’s Patient Summary into an infographic-led resource that improved accessibility. Steve has also presented the group’s work at NPCA annual meetings and supported collaborative publications between NPCA staff and PPG members. His efforts help cascade critical data, such as rising prostate cancer diagnoses and geographical disparities, to ensure our members understand the challenges ahead in improving awareness, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. Their commitment and hard work have been truly invaluable, and we are so grateful for everything they do. New Resources for Groups In response to your feedback, we launched new toolkits and resources to help support group leaders with outreach, event planning, and peer support strategies. We hope these tools stored on the Members Portal have made your work easier and more impactful. If there are other tools and information resources you need, then please let us know. Looking Ahead to 2025 We are excited to continue working alongside you in 2025 as we build on this year’s successes. Together, we will:Expand our network and reach more individuals who need support.Launch our Peer Coaching serviceDevelop further resources tailored to your needs.Collaborate with our partners across the prostate cancer community to support national campaigns for better treatment and services, ensuring your voices are heard.Your feedback is always welcome, and we look forward to collaborating closely with all of you in the year ahead.Thank You!We couldn’t do this without the commitment of our support group leaders, volunteers, and trustees. You are the heart of Tackle Prostate Cancer, and your dedication inspires us every day. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can make a difference. Wishing you all a relaxing and joyful holiday season and a wonderful start to 2025. We shall be taking a well earned rest over the holiday , and please do drop us an email if you have any comments, suggestions or thoughts. With all best wishes, Sarah and the Tackle Team |
Left to right. Stuart, Sarah, Andrew, Kelly, Adam and Molly.
As part of our Movember Peer Navigation/Buddy programme, we are delighted to invite you to our upcoming Train-the-Trainer workshops in January (30th and 31st). The workshop led by Aidan Adkins is designed to prepare participants to effectively lead our new two-day Peer to Peer Navigation training programmes across the UK.
This opportunity is perfect for those looking to enhance their impact and play a key role in supporting those people recently diagnosed. By joining our workshop, you’ll receive the essential skills and knowledge needed to deliver future Peer Navigation training sessions, which are crucial to our outreach and support efforts.
While experience in coaching, counselling, mentoring, or training is beneficial, it is not required. We are keen to welcome anyone who is enthusiastic about learning and committed to helping others through their experience of being diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Join us to make a significant difference in our community while developing your own skills in a nurturing and professional environment. All out of pocket expenses will be paid including, travel, and if necessary accommodation.
If you would like to talk to us before you register, please contact Sarah.
| Hot Topics |
 Our final Hot Topics of 2024. Please share this with your Group Members. You will find information on a number of campaigns and reports. There is also information about our new Peer Coaching project which launches in 2025. |
Click here to download and share our December Hot Topics
| Group Leaders Meeting |
 We look forward to seeing you at our first Support Group Leaders meeting in 2025. If you haven’t attended before, then please join this supportive and friendly group for people who lead and organise Peer Support groups. . |
Group Spotlight This month we celebrated the success of 4 groups who kindly volunteered to speak about their support group at our Support Group Leaders meeting . Huge thanks to Durham and District, Isle of Wight PCSG, Kidderminster and Worcestershire PCSG, and Torbay Prostate Support Association. You can watch the recording of their presentations by clicking below. Watch the recording of our meeting here |
