Supporting people, strengthening connections, and building local leadership in Northland

The Te Tai Tokerau Project is an initiative of the Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Trust. Our goal is to empower people affected by head and neck cancer in Northland to connect, share experiences, and shape their own community of support.

Why this project matters

People in Te Tai Tokerau (Northland) often face long travel distances, fewer local resources, and limited access to peer support after treatment. We know that connecting with others who understand can make a huge difference in recovery and well-being.

This project aims to change that — by supporting the local community to establish a self-sustaining, locally led support group.

Our goals

1. Create local connections

   • Support the Northland head and neck cancer community to come together, online and in person.

   • Provide a safe, caring space for patients, survivors, and whānau to share experiences and learn from one another.

2. Build local leadership

   • Help Northland patients and supporters develop the confidence and skills to coordinate their own activities and events.

   • Encourage co-design — where local people lead and shape what support looks like for their community.

3. Hold regular gatherings

   • Establish two community meetings each year (in person or online) to strengthen relationships and share knowledge.

   • Invite guest speakers such as clinicians, researchers, and peer mentors to inspire and inform.

4. Collaborate with health professionals

   • Work alongside local clinical nurse specialists, speech-language therapists, and the Cancer Society to ensure consistent, connected care and support.

5. Provide practical resources

   • Share brochures, patient planners, and welcome packs for new patients and families.

   • Offer information about trusted services, treatment side effects, and self-care after treatment.

How you can be involved

We’re inviting everyone in the Northland community — patients, survivors, whānau, and health professionals — to take part. You can:

• Join our online community meetings

• Help plan future gatherings

• Share your story or experience

• Spread the word to others who might benefit

Together, we can build a strong and supportive head and neck cancer community in Te Tai Tokerau.

Get in touch

If you would like to learn more, receive our updates, or join our next meeting, please contact us:
📧 headandnecknetwork@gmail.com
🌐 www.headandneck.org.nz