Written answer
Health Services
894. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Health the reason there are currently no community cancer support centres based in Meath; and when will one be delivered. [28710/26]
Comment on this
The National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 recognises cancer support centres as a valuable resource, providing access to support to cancer patients and their families outside of the acute care setting. The HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) works closely with a network of Community Cancer Support Centres, particularly in regard to the psycho-oncology models of care and the implementation of survivorship programmes for those living with and beyond cancer.
Community Cancer Support Centres (CCSCs) are voluntary and charity organisations delivering services directly to cancer patients and their families that emphasise the importance of quality of life during and after cancer treatment. These services can be availed of free of charge and in local communities. The NCCP Revised Best Practice Guidance for CCSCs was published in March 2022.
The NCCP Alliance of CCSCs was also established in 2022. The NCCP Alliance is a HSE initiative which aims to develop a collaborative framework for community-based cancer support centres and services. This programme promotes participation in capacity-building activities and communication and networking forums aimed at ensuring that community-based cancer support services are integrated.
The NCCP operates an activity-based funding model for organisations who have joined the NCCP Alliance. Additional funding of €5.5 million was allocated in 2026, which supports members of the NCCP Alliance. Some centres and groups also receive funding resources through their local Community Healthcare Organisations in the HSE.
Voluntary organisations in Meath wishing to join the NCCP Alliance are advised to engage with the NCCP to ensure that they meet the required governance, clinical and service delivery standards and to submit an application for membership in line with the Alliance's established criteria and quality framework.