Support events

What to expect at our digital support events

Haven’t attended one of our digital events before? Here we answer some frequently asked questions about our digital support events, so you know what to expect. If you have any other questions, email us at [email protected].  

How do I sign up for an event?

All our upcoming events are advertised on our website for you to sign up. You’ll be able to find more details about what the event will cover, the date, time, guest speakers, and have the option to submit a question for the speaker (if applicable). 

All of our events are free to attend, but you’ll need to sign up in order to receive information on how to join the session. 

How do I join on the day?

We run all of our events digitally on Zoom so you can join from wherever you are in the UK. Once you’ve signed up, we’ll email you with further details and the Zoom link so that you can join us on the day. 

If it’s your first time using Zoom or attending one of our events, you can download our joining instructions here.  

What sort of events do you offer?

Our support events offer you the chance to meet leading experts as well as others affected by ovarian cancer. The events are tailored so you can choose the type of support that suits you: 

• Wellbeing events: these free sessions include weekly yoga and relaxation and a bi-weekly tea and chat over Zoom. We also run wellbeing sessions on different topics – everything from mindfulness and creative writing to ‘Empower Hour’, where you can hear about other people’s experiences of ovarian cancer.
• Information events: we run regular ‘Ask the Experts’ online Q&As over Zoom to help you understand more about different aspects of ovarian cancer. These range from genetics and targeted treatments, managing symptoms and side effects, to getting the most out of your treatment, and updates on clinical trials and new treatments. In these Q&As, you can put your questions to healthcare experts, including oncologists, surgeons, geneticists, mental health practitioners and clinical nurse specialists.

How do I know whether the event is right for me?

Our programme of digital events is shaped by you and the support that you’ve told us you need so we hope that you can find an event that interests you. 

On each event description, you’ll find details of what topics the event will cover so you know what to expect. Some of our events are designed for those with a diagnosis of ovarian cancer, whereas some are also open to friends and family, but this will be clearly specified in the description. 

If after signing up, you feel that this event isn’t quite right for you, then just let us know. 

What do I do during the event?

The format of the session will depend on what type of event it is.

Typically, our events are led by a guest speaker who will share information or lead the group through a particular activity, so you can sit back and listen. We like to encourage audience engagement where possible, through a Q&A or the Zoom chat for example, but it’s always your decision as to how involved you’d like to be. Anything you need to know regarding the session will be shared with you before the event, but if anything isn’t clear then just get in touch with us.

Our regular events, including Tea and Chat and Yoga & Relaxation, are more interactive and are a great way to meet others affected by ovarian cancer. Again, it’s up to you how involved you’d like to get, but you’re guaranteed a very warm welcome. 

Will I know anyone there?

You may recognise some people at the event, from your treatment, the online communities or other events that you’ve attended previously, or you may be meeting everyone for the first time. 

If you'd like to chat to others women attending ahead of the day, then why not you can join our online community.

The Ovarian Cancer Community and In Touch are our private Facebook groups where you can connect with others affected by ovarian cancer, wherever you are in the UK.  

What happens if I sign up but can't attend?

We understand that things may change and you may no longer be able to join us for an event. If this is the case, just let us know if you can, by emailing us at [email protected]. You don’t need to worry about providing a reason.

If you can’t stay for the whole event, you’re welcome to join a little late, or leave a little early if you need to. We record our events so if you can no longer attend or want to catch up on something you missed, you can watch the recording back up at a time that suits you on our YouTube channel (please note that this does not include Tea & Chat and Yoga & Relaxation sessions).

P.S. Our new events playlists are on YouTube! Catch up on our Wellbeing events, or our Ask the Experts events. 

I have additional requirements, for example eyesight, hearing or mobility concerns. What should I do? 

You can let us know of any requirements or concerns you have when filling out the booking form. We'll always try our best to accommodate your needs, but if you'd like to discuss anything with a member of the Supportive Services team, you can call on 020 7923 5475 or email us: [email protected]. 

What happens if I get upset during an event?

If our events bring any feelings to the surface for you, you're welcome to step out of a session at any time. We understand that everyone is at different stages and copes differently, so we do everything we can to ensure that our events are a safe and positive space for everyone that attends.

If you'd like to discuss anything after an event, you can call our support line for free on 0808 802 6000 to speak to one of our specialist nurses. If you can't call, or prefer to write things down, you can fill out our contact form and one of our nurse advisers will be in touch.