The Head and Neck Cancer Support Network

FHead and Neck Cancer Support Network Trust

Annual Summary for Funders
[2025]

Who We Are

The Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Trust is a registered charitable trust in Aotearoa New Zealand, dedicated to supporting people affected by head and neck cancers. Founded by patients, for patients, we exist to ensure no one has to face head and neck cancer alone.

  • Charities Services Registration Number: CC62562

  • NZBN: ($@()%@$(!)%$

  • Incorporated under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957

  • Donations are tax-deductible in New Zealand

  • Website: https://www.headandneck.org.nz

Our Mission

We empower people affected by head and neck cancer to live well.
We do this through peer support, trusted information, advocacy, and community connection.

What We Do

We provide a national support system tailored to the unique needs of people living with head and neck cancer. Our key areas of work include:

1. Peer Support Services

  • Online and in-person support groups

  • Peer matching and mentoring

  • Welcoming new patients with support packs including planners and handmade Tui birds

2. Information and Education

  • Trusted, patient-friendly resources on our website

  • Monthly newsletters and regular email updates

  • Webinars and Zoom discussions on key topics

3. Advocacy and Engagement

  • Ongoing collaboration with Te Aho o Te Kahu (Cancer Control Agency), HealthNZ, and clinicians

  • Submissions on health policy and service design

  • Raising awareness during Mouth Cancer Action Month and World Head and Neck Cancer Day

4. Community Outreach

  • Brochures distributed in hospitals, hospices, and clinics

  • Events such as tea parties, public talks, and carer support sessions

  • Fundraising campaigns including Giving Tuesday and merchandise sales

Our Impact

  • Over 1,000 members and followers nationwide (patients, survivors, whānau, clinicians)

  • Over 20,000 website visits annually

  • Active online community via Facebook and private discussion forums

  • Contributions to national cancer strategy and service design

A summary of our community’s needs and experiences can be found in our Taking the Temperature reports.

Our Governance

The Trust is governed by a diverse and committed volunteer Board, made up of individuals with lived experience of head and neck cancer, and community leaders. The board meets monthly and is supported by working groups and a growing network of volunteers.

Board Members [2025]

  • Chair: Diana Ayling – Online Community Builder and Patient Advocate

  • Heather Anderson

  • Brian Sheppard

  • Gaynor Anderson

The Trust complies with all reporting and accountability obligations under the Charities Act.

How We Are Funded

We rely on a combination of:

  • Public donations

  • Grants from community funders

  • Occasional sponsorships and bequests

Our latest financial statements are available here:

We are proud to deliver high impact at low cost, with most services delivered by volunteers and minimal overhead.

How You Can Help

Your funding helps us:

  • Print and distribute patient resources

  • Run support groups and events

  • Reach more people in need of connection and care

  • Advocate for better outcomes across the cancer journey

To discuss partnership opportunities or arrange a meeting, please contact:
📧 info@headandneck.org.nz
📞 [Phone number if you wish to include it]

Thank You

Your support means the world to our community. With your help, we are building a future where everyone affected by head and neck cancer feels heard, informed, and connected.understood.