HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) launches Cancer Alliance Annual Activity Report

The HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Minister of State at the Department of Health, Colm Burke TD presented cancer groups with plaques in recognition of the work they do for people affected by cancer at an event in Farmleigh today.

Each member of the Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centres & Services (the Alliance) were presented with a plaque to reward them for the valuable role these community cancer support centres and services have in supporting cancer patients and their families across the country. 

Additionally, the Annual Activity Report for 2023 was published and the inaugural steering group was announced.

Speaking following the event, Prof Risteárd Ó Laoide, National Director, HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) said;
"Today marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to support cancer patients and their families throughout Ireland. The presentation of plaques to each member organisation of the NCCP Alliance and the introduction of our inaugural steering group underscore the vital role community cancer support centres play in our healthcare system. These centres provide invaluable psychosocial support and survivorship programmes, ensuring comprehensive care for those living with and beyond cancer.

“The launch of our Annual Activity Report for 2023 highlights the impact of our work. The €3 million funding allocated through Budget 2024 will further empower these organisations to continue their essential services, reinforcing our commitment to integrated care pathways and the principles of Sláintecare. We are grateful to the Department of Health for their support. We thank all our community partners for their dedication and engagement with our Best Practice Guidance. Together, we are creating a more supportive, responsive, and effective cancer care network across the country."

The Alliance is an NCCP initiative, set up in 2022, made up of voluntary and charity organisations delivering support services directly to cancer patients and their families. The Alliance advocates for and supports the development of integrated pathways between the cancer centres, acute hospitals, community cancer support services and primary care. It is very much in line with the values of Sláintecare and seeks to provide assurances to healthcare professionals that these organisations are working to an agreed standard as set out in Best Practice Guidance published by the NCCP. They have an important role in delivering psychosocial services and survivorship programmes for those living with and beyond cancer. Services include counselling, provision of information, physical activity opportunities, financial advice and return to work support. They offer peer support and both individual and group services.

Tim McSwiney, Chairman, Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House, said;
“Being compliant with the Best Practice Guidance for Community Cancer Support Centres is a mark of quality. It offers us a yardstick to measure what we are doing against the standards required.  As a result, healthcare professionals have more confidence in referring people to our services. We are very proud to be a member of the Alliance.”

The Minister for Health allocated €3m in funding to NCCP’s Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centres & Services through Budget 2024. NCCP is currently in the process of distributing those funds. These funds will directly impact the delivery of services for patients and families nationally.