Cancer Information & Support — Clare Cancer Support

Sláinte an Chláir, Clare Cancer Support is a community-based organisation providing free cancer information and support services in County Clare, Ireland. Founded in 2010 and operating from centres in Kilnamona and Raheen, Clare Cancer Support works in partnership with the HSE National Advocacy Unit to deliver person-centred care for people living with cancer, their families, and their friends. One in three people in Ireland will receive a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime — Clare Cancer Support exists to ensure that no one in Clare faces cancer alone.

What Cancer Types Does Clare Cancer Support Cover?

Clare Cancer Support provides factual, evidence-based information on the cancers most commonly affecting people in Ireland. Each resource has been developed to help people understand symptoms, screening options, and the support available.

• Breast Cancer — Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Ireland. Clare Cancer Support covers symptoms, treatment pathways, and the importance of early detection through BreastCheck and self-examination.
• Cervical Cancer Prevention — Cervical cancer is largely preventable through screening. Clare Cancer Support provides information about CervicalCheck, the free national screening programme for women aged 25–65.
• Ovarian Cancer Awareness — Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent cancer" because early symptoms can be vague. Clare Cancer Support explains the signs to watch for and the importance of knowing your body.
• Melanoma & Skin Cancer — Ireland has one of the highest rates of melanoma in Europe. Clare Cancer Support explains the ABCD rule for detecting suspicious moles and the importance of sun protection.
• Prostate Cancer — Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Ireland. Clare Cancer Support provides information on symptoms, research, and the Cancer Man to Man support group.

What Support Services Does Clare Cancer Support Offer?

All services provided by Sláinte an Chláir, Clare Cancer Support are completely free of charge. The organisation offers a range of support designed to address the emotional, psychological, and social dimensions of living with cancer.

• Drop-in Cancer Support Centre — The centres in Kilnamona and Raheen operate as a "home from home" where people affected by cancer are always welcome. No appointment is needed — drop in for a cup of tea, a chat, and genuine human connection.
• Psychological, Social & Emotional Support — Clare Cancer Support provides professional support for people living with cancer, their families, and friends in a safe, positive, caring, and confidential environment.
• Cancer Man to Man — A dedicated support group for men affected by cancer. Men gather in a relaxed setting to share experiences, offer mutual support, and maintain social connections during and after treatment.
• Cancer Information Days — Annual events featuring presentations from medical professionals on topics including breast cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, mental health, and urology.
• Annual Healing Mass — Held at Kilnamona Church, the Healing Mass is a community celebration for everyone on a cancer journey. It brings together members, families, and supporters in a spirit of hope and solidarity.
• Mental Health Support — Presentations and resources addressing the psychological impact of cancer, because recovery involves far more than medical treatment alone.

How Does Clare Cancer Support Work with the HSE?

In June 2013, the HSE National Advocacy Unit formally announced its partnership with Clare Cancer Support. Mr. Greg Price, National HSE Director of Advocacy, visited the Clare Cancer Support Centre and declared that "community-based groups such as Sláinte an Chláir, Clare Cancer Support are important partners in achieving the goal of the National Healthcare Charter at local levels."

The HSE partnership with Clare Cancer Support focuses on three quality development initiatives:

1. Advocacy Support — Developing the capacity to capture and manage people's experiences of cancer and health services through the HSE "Your Service Your Say" policy.
2. Partnership Working — Fostering working relationships between Clare Cancer Support, healthcare providers, and other service organisations across the Clare region.
3. Sustainability — Developing robust plans for the long-term sustainability of person-centred community-based cancer support in County Clare.

Over 25 years of research demonstrates that community-based support groups are an effective method of helping people cope with cancer, reducing depression and anxiety levels, and improving quality of life. The HSE endorsement recognises Clare Cancer Support as a high quality model that other communities can learn from.

How Cancer Awareness Connects to Prevention and Wellness

Understanding cancer is the first step toward meaningful prevention. When people learn about risk factors, screening programmes, and early warning signs, they are better equipped to make informed choices about their health. Clare Cancer Support bridges the gap between cancer information and practical action.

The Cancer Prevention & Wellness Guide from Clare Cancer Support covers evidence-informed strategies for reducing risk — including sun protection, nutrition, physical activity, and screening participation. The Wellness Product Guides review products that support overall health and wellbeing. And the Healthy Living & Nutrition Guide provides practical lifestyle guidance grounded in Irish health recommendations.

Cancer awareness, prevention, and wellness form a continuum. Clare Cancer Support is here for every stage — from information and support through to the everyday choices that contribute to a healthier life.

Cancer Support Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Clare Cancer Support provide for free?

Clare Cancer Support provides completely free drop-in support at centres in Kilnamona and Raheen, professional psychological and emotional support, the Cancer Man to Man programme for men, Cancer Information Days featuring medical professionals, the annual Healing Mass, and online educational resources covering breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, and prostate cancer. No service provided by Sláinte an Chláir carries any charge.

Where are the Clare Cancer Support centres located?

The main Clare Cancer Support centre is located at Tír Mhuire, Leckaun East, Kilnamona, Ennis, Co. Clare V95 RF4W. It is open Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 3pm, with other times available by appointment. A second centre operates in Raheen, East Clare, open Wednesday from 10am to 3pm. Visit the directions page for travel information.

Does Clare Cancer Support work with the HSE?

Yes. Since 2013, the HSE National Advocacy Unit has formally partnered with Clare Cancer Support to develop person-centred community-based cancer support. Mr. Greg Price, National HSE Director of Advocacy, endorsed the partnership and outlined three quality initiatives: advocacy support, partnership working, and sustainability planning. Read more about the HSE partnership.

What types of cancer does Clare Cancer Support cover?

Clare Cancer Support provides educational information on breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma and skin cancer, and prostate cancer. The organisation also covers cancer screening programmes available in Ireland, including CervicalCheck and BreastCheck.

How can I contact Clare Cancer Support?

You can contact Sláinte an Chláir, Clare Cancer Support by email at admin@clarecancersupport.com. You are also welcome to visit the centres in person — the main centre at Kilnamona is open Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 3pm, and the Raheen centre is open Wednesday from 10am to 3pm. No appointment is needed — drop in for a cup of tea and a chat. Visit the directions page for travel information.

Learn more about Sláinte an Chláir, Clare Cancer Support on the About page, or explore our full range of resources:

• Cancer Prevention & Wellness Guide
• Wellness Product Guides
• Healthy Living & Nutrition Guide