A cancer diagnosis can change your financial situation.
Here at the Macmillan Information and Support Service we can help make money one less worry.
You may be entitled to benefits if you are on a low income, have limited savings or if you affected by certain health conditions. The benefits system can be confusing and difficult to understand. Our Specialist Team are here to help you find out what financial support may be available to you and how to apply for them.
Benefit Advice
Each benefit has rules about who can claim them and some benefits are paid to you for particular reasons, for example if you have a health problem that makes it difficult for you to walk or look after yourself.
Some benefits depend on the amount of money and savings you have and these are called income related benefits. Other benefits can only be paid if you have paid enough National Insurance Contributions and these are called contribution based benefits or contributory benefits.
Our team of friendly Macmillan Professionals can help you by checking what benefits you may be entitled to and provide you with the information and support you need to start an application. We also have access to specialist benefits advisors who can support you and your loved ones.
Financial Advice
We give financial support to people affected by cancer, including accessing grants through Macmillan and other local and national organisations.
Every week over 900 people affected by cancer receive a Macmillan Grant. We work with many other organisations who also provide financial help to people living with and beyond cancer. This financial support can help to pay a heating bill, replace a broken essential household item, like washing machines or fridge, it could fund a much needed holidays to aid recovery from cancer treatment or it may pay for an item to aid your wellbeing and comfort. The criteria to access financial support varies and is set by the individual organisation, but it typically depends on the household savings and income and also on your diagnosis. Some organisations will give grants to people who live in a specific area or who have a certain occupation. We can advise you on what you might be entitled to and how to apply. We can also offer advice and support with claiming for travel expenses, help with energy costs and reducing your outgoings.
If you would like help with claiming benefits, financial support or to apply for a grant, pop in to one of our Centres, call, text or email us. No appointment is required.