Become a Treatment Decision Buddy

When someone is newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, the decisions ahead can feel overwhelming.

Help others as a Treatment Decision Buddy

As a Treatment Decision Buddy, you’ll be that steady, understanding voice offering one-to-one prostate cancer support – helping men and their loved ones explore treatment options and make confident, informed choices. This is your chance to turn your lived experience into someone else’s lifeline.

What does a Buddy do?

As a Treatment Decision Buddy, you’ll provide trusted treatment decision support to men facing prostate cancer.

What to Expect

Our support groups give people affected by prostate cancer the space to talk

Comprehensive training in coaching skills, safeguarding, and communication.
Continuous development and learning with other Peer Coaches.
The personal reward of helping others make empowered, informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a Peer Coach do?

Peer Coaches support men who have recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Using  their own lived experience and listening skills, they provide a safe, non-judgemental space for  others to explore treatment options and concerns. They do not offer medical advice or tell  others what to do. 

No. Full training is provided. We’re looking for people with experience of prostate cancer who are good listeners, empathetic, and comfortable talking about their own journey.
  • The training takes place over two days and includes interactive sessions on: 
  • Listening and questioning techniques 
  • Coaching models like GROW 
  • Understanding how people make decisions 
  • Exploring unconscious bias and safeguarding 
  • Signposting to trusted resources and support
  • You’ll also practise real-life conversations in a supportive environment.

No. The training is free of charge and includes materials, refreshments, and ongoing support. We will reimburse your travel costs and if you live more than 90 minutes from the venue, we can provide a hotel if necessary.  

You’ll be invited to join our national network of Peer Coaches. We’ll match you with individuals  who’ve asked for support, and you’ll have regular check-ins with the project team. You’ll also be  part of peer learning sets where you can share experiences and ask questions. 

That’s up to you. On average, Peer Coaches support around 3 people a year, with an initial  session and 1–2 follow-up conversations. You can always choose to do more or less depending  on your time and energy. 

It’s flexible. Most sessions take place by phone or Zoom, though some may be in-person at a  coffee shop or community centre. We always agree with you what works best. 

Yes. Supporting others can be emotional. You’ll never be left to manage alone. We provide group check-ins and can connect you with someone to talk things through at any point. 

That’s absolutely fine. The training is a great way to find out if peer coaching is the right fit for  you. There’s no obligation to continue if, after the workshop or once you’ve started, you feel it’s  not for you. We value your time and openness, and we’ll still consider it a valuable contribution  that you explored the opportunity. 

Just email sarah.gray@tackleprostate.org with a short note about your experience and why  you’re interested. We’ll get in touch for an informal chat before confirming your place on the  next training session.

Join us and make a difference

If you’ve been through prostate cancer and want to help others navigate it with confidence, become a Treatment Decision Buddy. Email us below with a short message about your experience and why you’re interested.

A DBS check or equivalent is required for this volunteer role.

Get in Touch

Have another query? A member of our team are always here to help you and your loved ones with any questions you have regarding your prostate cancer.

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