support and information services Legal advice
The HIV/AIDS Legal Centre (HALC) assists people with hep C-related legal issues. They offer advocacy and advice about a number of problems including: discrimination and vilification; superannuation and insurance; employment; privacy and healthcare complaints. For more information phone 9206 2060 or 1800 063 060 or visit www.halc.org.au
Hep Connect phone peer support program Hep Connect offers support and discussion with volunteers who have been through hep C treatment. This is a free and confidential phone-based service which anyone in NSW can access. Please phone 9332 1599 or 1800 803 990 (free call NSW). Hep C Australasia online hep C peer support
This Australasia-wide online internet community offers online support. You can start your own conversation thread or take part in existing threads, offer your point of view or share your experiences. Just visit www.hepcaustralasia.org AHCS online hep C support forum
Australian Hepatitis C Support – an online forum aimed at sharing hep C information and support: www.hepcaustralia.com.au Central Coast support groups
For people on treatment, post treatment or thinking about treatment. The groups provide an opportunity for people going through a similar experience to network and support each other in an informal and confidential atmosphere. For info, phone 4320 2390 or 4320 3338. Gosford: 6pm-7.30pm on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Health Services Building, Gosford Hospital. Wyong: 1pm-2.30pm on the first Thursday of each month at the Wyong Health Centre, 38 Pacific Hwy. Coffs Coast hep C support group
A peer support group for people living with or receiving treatment for hep C. Meets on 2nd Tuesday, every month 4.00-5.30pm at Coffs Harbour Community Village, Earl Street Coffs
Harbour. For info phone Helen Young, Social Worker, Coffs Harbour Health Campus on 6656 7846. Coffs Coast family and friends support group
A self directed peer support network for family and friends of those living with or receiving treatment or recovering from hep C. For info, phone Debbie on 0419 619 859. Hunter hep C support services
A service for people of the Hunter region living with hep C. It is run by healthcare professionals working with hep C treatment and care and based at John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton. For info, phone Carla Silva on 4922 3429 or Tracey Jones on 4921 4789. Nepean hep C support group
Guest speakers to keep you informed about hep C. Family and friends are more than welcome. Light refreshments and supper are provided. Held in the Nurse Education Dept. Lecture Room (Somerset Street entrance), Nepean Hospital. For info, phone Vince on 4734 3466. Northern Rivers liver clinic support group
An opportunity for people considering or undergoing treatment, or who have completed treatment to get know each other. For info, phone 6620 7539. Port Macquarie hep C support group
Peer support available for people living with or affected by hep C. For info, phone Lynelle on 0418 116 749 or Jana on 0412 126 707 or 6588 2750. Wollongong hep C support group
A support group for people living with, receiving or have received treatment for hep C. Meets 1st Tuesday most months, 10am-11.30am. Morning tea provided. For more info, phone the Liver Clinic at Wollongong Hospital on 4222 5181. Family and friends are also welcome.
Hep Review
Edition 76
March 2012
65