This International Men’s Day, the Solas Cancer Support Centre are hoping to increase male engagement with local cancer support services in Waterford. The centre continues its work to break stigma and encourage men to seek emotional and practical support during their cancer journey.

Male Engagement Remains Low but Improving

National figures from 2024 show that men made up only 23% of clients attending 29 Community Cancer Support Centres across Ireland. Solas recorded a slightly higher rate, with men representing 27% of its clients. The charity wants to increase this number and remove the barriers that prevent many men from seeking help.

As part of this effort, the centre promoted a blue t-shirt awareness initiative during the Run and Walk for Life event. The campaign prompted nine new male referrals in the following week, compared to four during the same period last year. The increase shows that targeted awareness can make a real impact.

A Survivor’s Perspective

Cancer survivor and Solas service user Ollie Doyle, from Tramore described his initial hesitation to seek support. His family encouraged him to try the Men’s Hub initiative, and he joined a fishing trip as his first activity.

“I had preconceived ideas that the centre was for women only,” he said. After the trip, he decided to visit the centre the next day. “I came in the following day and never looked back.”

Ollie said the support he received transformed his experience.
“Attending the service was life changing. You meet people who may not have the same cancer, but they share the same experience. It takes away some of the emotional strain.”

He also highlighted the relief of having a place to express concerns openly.
“When you are diagnosed with cancer, you are asking all these questions, and that can be a lot to deal with alone. Having people to share that with changes everything.”

Encouraging Men to Reach Out

Ollie now encourages other men who are living with a cancer diagnosis to use the service. He believes International Men’s Day offers the perfect opportunity to highlight the support available and to remind men that they do not have to face their cancer journey alone.

On International Men’s Day, the Solas Cancer Support Centre campaign reinforces the message that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. As the centre continues to expand its men’s programmes, it hopes to see even more men engage with its vital services.

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