National Inclusion Week is an opportunity to think about what inclusion means for people affected by cancer. Cancer can affect anyone, but the experience of diagnosis, treatment and recovery isn’t the same for everyone.
For some people, their identity or circumstances can bring additional challenges when accessing information, treatment or support.
At Macmillan, we want everyone affected by cancer to feel that there is space for them.
That’s why Macmillan's Online Community has dedicated spaces where people from different communities can connect with those who understand the challenges they face. Here are three examples:
Many LGBTQIA+ people worry about whether healthcare professionals will understand their relationships or family structure. They may also find themselves having to repeatedly explain their pronouns, name or identity. Some people may also have concerns about how cancer treatment could affect their gender identity, gender expression or accessing gender-affirming care.
There can also be challenges finding information and support that reflect LGBTQIA+ experiences.
Everyone’s experience is different, but having a space where you don’t have to explain or justify who you are can make a difference. Our LGBTQIA+ forum is a place to share experiences and ask questions.
Cancer can bring uncertainty, changes to routine and lots of information to process. For some neurodivergent people, these challenges can be particularly difficult.
Busy and unpredictable hospital environments, noise and sensory overload can make appointments overwhelming. Some people may prefer information that is clear, direct and written down, or need more time to process what they have been told.
There can also be challenges finding accessible support. For example, one neurodivergent person shares, ‘not everyone can cope with support groups as they find group participation difficult and stressful. An online peer support group would have helped myself and my son.’
Therefore, we’ve been working with Leeds Beckett University to understand the experiences of neurodivergent people affected by cancer. This has helped us create a dedicated Neurodivergence and Cancer thread in the Online Community.
It’s a space to share lived experience and questions with other neurodivergent people who have been affected by cancer.
For people from South Asian communities cancer can bring additional challenges.
Talking openly about cancer can be difficult where stigma or cultural taboos exist. Some people may feel pressure to stay positive or avoid discussing worries with family. Others may find that cancer information and support doesn’t always reflect their culture, faith or lived experience.
These challenges can make it harder to find the right information or feel comfortable asking for support.
Our South Asian cancer forum provides a space to connect with others who may understand some of these experiences. You can ask questions, share what has helped you and talk about the things that matter to you.
These are just three examples of communities who can experience additional barriers during a cancer journey. There are many others, and people’s identities and experiences can overlap in ways that make every cancer journey different.
Inclusion in cancer care is about listening, recognising that barriers exist, and making sure people have opportunities to find information and support that works for them.
The Macmillan Online Community is one way we are making that happen. You can share your experience, ask questions, offer support to others or simply read what people have shared.
And if you would like support in accessing and navigating the online community, our online community team are here to help. We also have help pages with lots of guidance on how to use the community.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us in the Online Community Team. You’re welcome to send us an email at community@macmillan.org.uk whenever you need us.
