Irish Cancer Society backs free counselling services in Sligo and surrounding areas

The Irish Cancer Society and Sligo Cancer Support Centre have partnered to provide 621 free counselling sessions across Sligo and surrounding areas including Leitrim in 2026. 

The Irish Cancer Society presented €68,000 to Sligo Cancer Support Centre, to deliver free counselling services. These free services can be availed by cancer patients, survivors and their family members. 

In addition to free counselling, Sligo Cancer Support Centre also provides a wide range of support including Holistic treatments – Reflexology, Acupuncture, Healing Touch Post breast cancer supports, Rehabilitation exercise with an Oncology trained fitness instructor. Online yoga, Online Mindfulness, Art for relaxation Children’s Art Therapy Various Support Groups, Empower Group for Ladies post cancer.

The Irish Cancer Society provides free remote counselling across the country, and by partnering with a network of 24 local cancer support centres, funding is provided to deliver free in-person counselling at a community level.  In 2025, the Irish Cancer Society’s free nationwide counselling service provided almost 13,000 sessions through cancer support centres across the country.

“One in two of us will receive a cancer diagnosis in our lifetime, and when we do, we deserve the best possible support to help us process and come to terms with our diagnosis. On top of the physical impact of cancer treatment, we know the emotional and psychological toll cancer can take on patients and their loved ones during and beyond their diagnosis,” said Mary Quinn, Head of Service Operations at the Irish Cancer Society.

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“Providing free counselling to patients, survivors and their family members is a crucial service for those affected by cancer. We are delighted to partner with Sligo Cancer Support Centre to deliver these services in Sligo. 

“As well as offering our own remote counselling services, through our 24 local cancer support centre partners, the Irish Cancer Society funds vital free counselling services on the ground across Ireland. We simply can’t be there for those patients and families without the generosity and support of the Irish public. 

“Every €60 we can raise is a free counselling session for a patient or their loved one. Every euro of your support will help make a difference. That’s why we’re asking for your support this Daffodil Day, Friday, March 20.”

Bridget Kerrigan, General Manager at Sligo Cancer Support Centre added: “We are grateful to receive support funding from the Irish Cancer Society to help  provide this vital service to people living with cancer. As stated by one of our clients: ‘I learned as a cancer patient that illness requires patience.’ 

“Every day our team in both our centres works with cancer patients and survivors who are dealing with the challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. Cancer patients have to learn how to live with the new normal of life.”

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For confidential advice, support and information on any cancer issue, contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700.