We were delighted to co-host the event, Empowering Voices: Sharing the research findings from the TIARA project, which took place yesterday, June 17th in Dublin, a collaboration between 221+ Patient Support Group and the University of Limerick.
During the event we explored findings from the TIARA (Empowering Voices: Understanding stigma in gynaecological cancer care) research project, which stems from the work 221+ has done with members over the years looking at what issues and barriers people experiencing cervical cancer face, and ways of improving these issues. 221+ consistently advocates for the services and supports needed, but these underlying social barriers remain. Cervical cancer has been described by a 221+ member as a ‘lonely cancer’ as it can be difficult to talk about or ask for help with symptoms.
This event therefore aimed to explore what makes an effective and inclusive support group, what specific needs exist within gynaecological cancer support, and how barriers to access—particularly stigma—can be addressed. In short, we hope to co-create a vision of a future support group that best meets the needs of all it serves.
Bringing together professional expertise, lived experience and findings from the TIARA research project, this is an exciting collaborative event with the aim to put into practice the insights learned to enhance gynaecological cancer supports for those who need them.
Schedule:
9:30–10:00 – Arrival and refreshments
10:00–10:15 – Opening & Context Setting with Ceara Martyn, 221+ Support Group Manager
10:15–10:45 – Roundtable Discussion
With patient representatives from the 221+ CervicalCheck Support Group sharing lived experience of gynaecological cancer and support needs
Facilitated by Padraig McKeon
10:45–11:00 – Break
11:00–11:30 – Presentation & Q&A
Dr Elaine Kinsella – TIARA Research Project (Research Ireland funded): Stigma in gynaecological cancer
11:30–12:15– Workshop: Strengthening and Developing Support Groups
Using insights from lived experience and research findings to explore barriers, needs, and solutions
12:15–12:30 – Group Feedback & Next Steps
Key actions and recommendations
12:30 – Closing Remarks
For further information on the event, please contact info@221plus.ie. For research queries, please contact Elaine.Kinsella@ul.ie.