13 11 20: We’re here for anyone impacted by cancer

Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 Information and Support line is a free, confidential service for anyone impacted by cancer, meaning a friendly, experienced health professional is just a phone call away and ready to answer your questions. 

Jan Priaulx leads the team of health professionals at Cancer Council NSW: 

“Our free and confidential 13 11 20 service is here for people who have been affected by cancer, from someone dealing with a cancer diagnosis to those supporting a loved one through their experience.  

“The COVID-19 pandemic has meant vulnerable people with cancer have faced increased levels of social isolation, and may not have their usual network of family, friends or loved ones to provide emotional support. Many have found it comforting to know that the 13 11 20 team are only a phone call away.

“Cancer affects everyone in different ways. You may feel a rollercoaster of emotions, including shock and worry about what it means for your way of life. You may be concerned about cancer treatment options and their side effects, or anxious about the financial impacts on you and your family. 

“During this time, it’s crucial to get reliable information and the right kind of support that may not always be available in the wider community. At Cancer Council, the 13 11 20 team are here to help you with just that by listening to your individual concerns and answering any questions you may have about cancer.” 

Support goes beyond a phone call with us 

The 13 11 20 team are ready to answer your questions about cancer, including: 

• emotional support if you or someone you care about has cancer 
• how to prevent cancer 
• questions about early detection 
• cancer diagnosis 
• how to cope with treatment and its side effects 
• practical support that is available to anyone affected by cancer 
• end of life issues 

We’ll also connect you to local support services and community-based groups where you can talk to someone who has been through a similar experience. Cancer Council has a range of information and services available – by calling 13 11 20, we can signpost you to the most suitable service for you. 

You don’t have to be experiencing cancer directly to call 13 11 20. Our service is available to anyone, including members of the public concerned about cancer risk, family members, colleagues, friends, and health professionals. 

We are open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. You can leave a message outside of these hours and we’ll contact you the next business day. Alternatively, if you need support outside of business hours, visit the Cancer Council Online Community, our moderated peer support website for people affected by cancer.