Background
There were 457 cancer diagnoses reported for Aboriginal Victorians during 2008-2012 with significantly higher mortality than other Victorians(1). The Havin’ a Yarn project was a partnership between Cancer Council Victoria (CCV) and the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation to facilitate discussions among Aboriginal Victorians about cancer in a safe, culturally appropriate space, explore supportive care needs and increase access to cancer information.

Method
Engagement of the Aboriginal community was accomplished through sharing of experiences in ‘yarning circles.’ Methods of educating key cancer staff in knowledge and awareness of Aboriginal health and cancer issues were determined through consultation with key stakeholders. A consumer-led evaluation framework was utilised to allow greater relevance and dissemination of project findings within the Aboriginal community.

Results
Seventy-one people attended three yarning circles and an additional 40 community meetings were held to help determine strategies for meeting information and support needs. These were: 1) The development of Aboriginal cancer support groups (ACSG); and 2) Culturally relevant resources and training. Appropriate artwork and Aboriginal involvement were important identifiers in what was culturally relevant.

Tailored guidelines for starting an ACSG group were developed, two ACSGs were formed, and 8 aboriginal people attended ACSG leader training. A supportive care information pack was developed and distributed to over 550 Aboriginal people affected by cancer. Forty-two CCV staff attended Cultural Safety training and cancer education was delivered to four forums of Aboriginal Health Workers.

A DVD developed as part of the project depicts Aboriginal people sharing their cancer experiences, reflections on the project, partnership formations and key learnings.

Conclusions
The Havin’ a Yarn project has allowed Aboriginal Victorian’s voices to inform the content of CCV’s supportive care programs, including the development of the first two Victorian ACSGs, the first Aboriginal-specific leader training and the first Aboriginal-specific supportive care information pack.