Become an advocacy volunteer

Advocacy refers to working at all levels of Government to make sure cancer patients receive the best care and support before, during and after their cancer treatment. 

Every day, Government departments and state agencies make decisions that affect the lives and wellbeing of people who are impacted by cancer. The Advocacy team raises awareness of cancer related issues and campaign for policy and legislation to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

Our advocacy volunteers engage with elected representatives and policy makers amongst others to influence the decisions being made in favour of cancer patients.

As an Advocacy Volunteer you will be part of a nationwide team of Advocacy Champions. Together with the Irish Cancer Society’s advocacy team you will work on selected campaigns. 

You may be asked to do research on particular topics, or prepare briefing and notes to highlight issues that impact cancer patients. 

You will be in regular contact and meet with politicians in your electoral constituency to discuss topics that affect cancer patients.

You will receive on the job training and the Advocacy Team is always there to assist and guide you.

You are invited to attend 2 - 3 advocacy meetings or training events per year.

• You are passionate about improving the experience of cancer patients 
• You are comfortable using email and social media
• You have good PC skills
• You have good communication and interpersonal skills
• You are able to work as part of a team, and can also work independently
• You are comfortable to speak in front of an audience or give a presentation
• You are highly motivated to ensure that the voices of cancer patients, survivors, families and caregivers are heard at all levels of Government

Unfortunately, we are not currently recruiting new Advocacy Volunteers. 

• Complete the online application form
• Telephone interview with a member of the Advocacy team: A short informal chat to assess your suitability for the role and give you the opportunity to ask us any questions.  
• Induction Training: An invitation to an online training module will be emailed to you. This will include information about the Irish Cancer Society and the services they offer to cancer patients, your role and guidelines to be followed. A number of volunteer documents must be agreed at this stage. Completion of this module is required to continue to the next round.
• Volunteer references checked.  
• Onboarding with the Grassroots Advocacy Co-ordinator