Community Representative Director

A Message from the Chairperson

Thank you for considering a role on the Board of ARC Cancer Support Centres.

We are at a defining moment. ARC has been a sanctuary for those affected by cancer in Dublin for over 30 years. The needs, challenges and experiences of those impacted by cancer have changed significantly in those three decades and cancer support must continue to adapt and evolve.  Nationally, cancer cases are projected to rise by 50% over the next 15 years.  To seek to meet these challenges, we will launch a ground-up strategic review in Q2 2026. We are looking for two new Directors (Board members) to join our passionate, hands-on Board and help contribute to the evolution, strategy and governance of our future.

About ARC Cancer Support Centres

ARC provides psychological, emotional, and practical support to people with cancer and their loved ones (www.arccancersupport.ie). With three centres in Dublin (Eccles Street, South Circular Road, and Herbert Avenue), we provide all services free of charge to anyone affected by cancer. 

ARC is a Charity (Registered Charity Number: 20028428 CHY Number: 10857) and a limited liability company (Company Number: 505230).  Hence, Directors are responsible for ensuring that the organisation is run consistent with company law and charity regulations.  Our income comes from the generosity of members of the public and companies as well as the HSE through Section 39 mechanisms.

ARC's mission is to provide psychological, emotional, educational, and practical support to people with cancer and those who care for them, through a warm, welcoming, and client-centred approach and to ensure that everyone is aware of, and able to access, these services.

Our core values underpin our mission, guide our behaviour and our decision making, and unify the organisation. These core values are:

Empathy - We feel what the client sitting with us feels. We understand their experiences and emotions and offer unconditional compassion and empathy.

Confidentiality - Confidentiality is of utmost importance to us, as it establishes trust and creates a safe environment for clients to talk freely. We respect that all clients and members of ARC are entitled to privacy and have a strict Confidentiality Policy in place consistent with the Data Protection Act.

Support - Because of a cancer diagnosis, many people feel fear, panic, isolation, and sadness. ARC provides emotional support and a sensitive, understanding approach to help individuals accept and deal with their difficulties, their illness, or the cancer diagnosis of a loved one.

Empowerment - The cancer journey can be painful and difficult, but we aim to empower cancer survivors and their loved ones to take an active role in looking after their own physical, mental, and emotional well-being, to build confidence to face the challenges ahead, and to feel hopeful rather than helpless.

Key Background Governance Documents:

• ARC Annual Report 2024
• Charities Governance Code
• HSE Section 39 compliance documentation

Why join ARC?

• Influence the future of one of Ireland’s longest‑established cancer support charities.
• Contribute to a major strategic review launching in 2026.
• Work with a committed Board and leadership team.
• Help shape support services for the thousands of families that use ARC.

Community Representative Director

• The Perspective: Lived experience of cancer and the supports provided by ARC (patient, carer, or ARC volunteer) with a background in community leadership or governance. Experience engaging with diverse or underserved communities is welcomed.
• The Focus: Ensuring the Board’s strategy remains anchored in the evolving needs of our service users.

Terms of Appointment

• Nature: Voluntary (non-remunerated). Vouched out-of-pocket expenses are recoupable.
• Term: Three years, renewable once.
• Commitment: ~6 Board meetings per year (Dublin-based/Hybrid) and participation in associated board committees, especially the newly formed Services Committee.
• Induction: Support and induction pack documentation provided

Application process

Please download and complete the ARC Board Director Template.  Informal enquiries are encouraged and applicants should contact the Chair of the Board – Robert O’Connor Ph.D. on robertoconnor@arccancersupport.ie

Submission date: 11th March 2026

Statement of interest template – ARC Board Director template 2026 ver 1.docx

For more information visit please see here: Board Candidate Information