A Fully Immersive Scientific Training Residency for Advocates with Lived Experience of Cancer
Sunday 23rd - Friday 28th August 2026
What is VOICE-Ireland?
VOICE-Irelandstands for Vision On Information, Confidence and Engagement - Ireland.
It is the first programme of its kind in Ireland, offering a fully immersive scientific training residency for people with lived experience of cancer. The programme adapts the successful UK-based VOICE model, originally developed by Independent Cancer Patients’ Voice (ICPV) at Bart’s Cancer Institute in London in 2009.
In Ireland, VOICE-Ireland has been co-designed by patient advocates and researchers working in partnership, grounded in the principles of co-production, inclusion and meaningful collaboration. The programme will launch as a pilot in August 2026, selecting 14 patient advocates from across Ireland to participate in its inaugural year, with plans for expansion in future cycles.
Explore the biology of cancer
Hands-on laboratory sessions
Why Attend?
People living with and beyond cancer hold vital knowledge and experience, yet many face barriers that limit their involvement in research and decision making. These can include unfamiliar scientific language, lack of confidence or structural imbalances within healthcare and research systems.
VOICE-Ireland has been created to remove those barriers. It provides structured time for learning, discussion and leadership development. The programme equips advocates to influence cancer research priorities and contribute meaningfully to study design and innovation. It also helps strengthen their voice in advocacy and ensures that patient perspectives shape decision making across the system.
Learn more about the evolving role of patient advocacy
Engage with researchers and contribute to conversations about research
VOICE-Ireland offers a fully immersive 5-day residency on the UCD campus from Sunday 23rd - Friday 28th August 2026, where participants explore the science of cancer and the wider research landscape. Through expert-led lectures, talks and facilitated discussions, advocates will learn about cancer biology, research methods, emerging technologies and the evolving role of patient advocacy. The programme includes hands-on laboratory sessions in UCD’s research facilities, giving participants the chance to apply scientific concepts in practice. Attendees will also engage with topics such as AI in cancer care and developments in cancer vaccines.
Alongside scientific learning, the programme supports the development of practical advocacy skills. Participants will engage with researchers and contribute to conversations about research, innovation and policy. A core focus of the residency is community building, giving advocates the opportunity to connect with peers and form a strong, supportive network.
The programme is free to attend, with all accommodation, meals and training costs covered to ensure an inclusive and accessible learning environment.
Connecting with other patient advocates