EONS Guide to Establish a National Cancer Nursing Society

The European Oncology Nursing Society (EONS) is a pan-European organisation dedicated to the support and development of cancer nursing. The improvement of patient safety and better clinical outcomes for people affected by cancer and their families is central to our work. EONS’ mission is to ensure that all people affected by cancer benefit from the care of highly educated, well-informed and competent cancer nurses. Through our individual members and national societies, we engage in projects to help cancer nurses develop their skills, network with each other and raise the profile of cancer nursing across Europe. Together we are stronger.

This guide has been prepared by EONS in intention to guide cancer nurse leaders to set up a National Cancer Nursing Society (or equivalent)  in countries where these societies do not exist, to empower staff of existing national societies to manage their organisation more effectively and strengthen their bond with EONS. This guide also intends to raise the profile of national cancer nursing societies by outlining the unique role that they play in the development and empowerment of the European cancer nursing workforce.

More precisely, this document aims to:

a) provide basic information on how to establish a society

b) provide guidance to cancer nurses in the process of establishing the society, and

c) provide guidelines on how to run a national cancer nursing society.

The possible services and (network) opportunities offered by EONS are also outlined.