Become a Parent Peer Support Volunteer

Parent Peer Support Volunteers offer support to other parents of children with cancer. All of our Parent Volunteers have children who have been treated for cancer in the past. This service is also available to other adult family members, such as grandparents, uncles, aunts. Each support session typically lasts 40 minutes. 

As a Parent Peer Volunteer, you will:  

• Provide a listening ear to other parents of children with cancer. Each Support session typically lasts 40 minutes
• Take part in training as well as support and supervision
• Provide feedback to the Survivor Support Coordinator
• Maintain and record any necessary information required.

Apply to be a Parent Peer Support Volunteer

Criteria for Role  

• Must be parent of child that has been diagnosed with cancer.
• It must be minimum 2 years since the child has had treatment but no more than 7 years. 
• Fathers and young parents are particularly encouraged to apply
• Strong communication skills
• Kind, empathetic and understanding approach

Time Commitment 

Parent Peer Support Volunteers are asked to commit this is role for a year minimum. There is flexibility in how often each parent offers a support session. Each support session lasts 40 minutes typically. There is potential for this role to include visits to St. John’s Ward, Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin.

Volunteer assessment process 

In order to become a Parent Peer Support volunteer, applicants must complete an assessment period which includes the following: 

• Interview 
• Training (online) 
• Children First Training 
• Garda clearance 
• Reference checks