Support groups play an integral role in the mental wellbeing of people impacted by genetic conditions. They can be a shoulder to lean on, a place to get practical advice and somewhere you can talk to others with similar experiences. While support groups are doing valuable work we understand that the running of a support group can be challenging. A large part of the GSNV’s role is to help support and guide support groups to run efficiently.
How can the GNSV help your support group?
We have a number of resources and programs that can help support groups at all different stages.
All our resources can be found in the support group portal of the Genetic Link, our online library of genetic related resources. To access these resources your support group will need to be a member of the GSNV, click here to become a member. You will be sent your login details when your membership has been confirmed. If you are already a member please contact us for your login details.
We have a number of resources and programs that can help support groups at all different stages.The stages can be referred to as the Lifecycle of the Support Group and within the Genetic Link general tools can be found relating to each lifecycle stage supporting the growth and stability of our community through shared best practice resources , training and peer support.
The GSNV also run a Volunteer Program which is an opportunity for our support groups to source suitable volunteers to assist them to deliver services to their community.
Volunteers come from many different backgrounds but generally have an interest and/or basic understanding of genetics. Further information on the volunteer program can be found on the Genetic Link website.
GSNV Small Grants:
The GSNV awards a Small Grant once a year to a support group. Small Grants may be used for a once-off project or activity that your group wishes to undertake.
Small Grants are not awarded for the purchase of aids and equipment. This funding is designed to provide once-off financial assistance to support groups who find it difficult to obtain funding via other grants schemes. GSNV grants may also be used towards administration costs for unfunded agencies.
The grant round commences in December and the grant is awarded in January the following year.
Further information and application processes for members can be found on the Genetic Link.
The GSNV can also advertise your meetings, conferences and special events in our quarterly newsletters, on our new website and in our regular e-bulletin, ‘Bits and Pieces‘.
Please contact us if you would like further information on this.