Prostate Cancer UK have teamed up Opening Doors London to create a new online discussion group for gay, bisexual and MSM men affected by the disease. The group aims to encourage participants to discuss subjects related to the disease and offer each other support.
Opening Doors London is the UK biggest charity offering support for older Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans people across the country. The charity provides socialising opportunities and support for people aged over 50 and also offer specialist training and consultancy for statutory and voluntary organisations to help them understand their LGBT customers and patients.
The first session will start on 18th of October at 7pm and should continue every third Thursday of the month for the trial period of 6 months. The sessions will last an hour and will be accessible from a computer, tablet or a phone. Participants can join anonymously or without being seen on the screen.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting men, and is set to become the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in the UK by 2030. More than 11,000 men die every year in the UK from prostate cancer. Tackling disease through research and support is crucial, including communication with specific communities.
Martin Wells, a gay man who was diagnosed with localised prostate cancer in 2007 shared his thoughts on the importance of support and a platform to share feelings and experiences: “I desperately needed emotional support to help me get through this difficult time and there weren’t any services near me that focused on psychosexual health. The fact there is now tailored support for men like me in every area of the country encouraged me to set up my own support groups. Talking to other men who could speak to me on my terms felt incredible. That’s why Prostate Cancer UK’s new online discussion group is a great opportunity for gay, bisexual men and MSM to come together and discuss any topics on prostate cancer without judgement, wherever they live.”
Professor Jeffery Weeks, Chair of ODL Trustees added: “Opening Doors London is delighted to be working in partnership with Prostate Cancer UK in the development of an important new service. This online support group for gay men living with prostate cancer will provide new opportunities to challenge taboos and anxieties and to develop mutual support, confidence and knowledge.”
To join the online discussion group, please register your details here.