Consumer Advocacy

The strength of a Network: moving beyond talk to action

Amanda WiniataCommunity Programs ManagerBreast Cancer Network Australia

BCNA’s mission

That every Australian diagnosed with breast cancer receives the best information, treatment, care and support, no matter who she is or where she lives

Over 60,000 members across Australia

What helps to effectively work together

• Clear expectations• Open communication• Knowledge to represent BCNA• Common understanding• Feedback• Share experiences

BCNA offers women two opportunities for advocacy roles

•Sharing personal experiences

•Community promotion activities

•Strengthening local networks

Community Liaison

•Influencing decision making•Involved in all types of committees

•Promoting value of consumer involvement

Consumer Rep

4. Feedback & ongoing support

3. Training

2. Screening

1. Recruitment

5. Evaluation

Community Liaisons

Forums

Website

Networks

Community events

Experience of BC

Community networks

Public speaking

Comm. skills

BCNA resources

Knowledge of BC

Action plan

Resources

Briefings

Networking

Online Network

Pre & post training

Number activities

Consumer Representative

Website

Community Liaison

Networks

Experience of BC

Understanding of BC

Raising issues

Advocacy skills

Health system

Basic science & clinical m’gement

Conferences

Refresher training

Teleconferences

Mentoring

Impact analysis

Case studies

Community Liaison highlights

Influencing decision making leading to improved outcomes

‘Chemoprevention’ ‘Risk-reducing medication’

Key factors for a successful program

• Processes to determine suitability for the role

• Ongoing engagement with women• Communication about expectations• Sophisticated database of women• Dedicated resources• Opportunities to develop capability• Engagement with requesting

organisations• Evaluation and continuous improvement