A cancer diagnosis can turn your world upside down and the last thing you need to worry about is money. But it’s an unavoidable fact that you’ll have to think about how your illness may affect your income.
It’s possible that you’ll need to spend money on things you didn’t necessarily spend on before. That may include things like the costs of getting to and from your appointments or on items to help you cope more easily day to day.
Getting help with transport costs
There are ways you can get help with the cost of attending appointments.
If you drive, many hospitals offer free parking to people with cancer. Ask the staff at your hospital about this and they can let you know if that’s the case where you’re having treatment. If you have a Blue Badge, you can park in spaces closer to the places you need to visit.
If you’re on a low income, ask your GP surgery or hospital about the NHS Low Income Scheme. This could offer you refunds on bus, train or taxi fares or money to help pay for petrol.
Alternatively, you may be able to claim a refund under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme if you have to travel to and from hospital for treatment. If you need someone to travel with you for medical reasons, you may also be able to get a refund on their travel costs.
Finding out about benefits
When you’re diagnosed with cancer, you may be entitled to certain disability and sickness benefits. In England, Scotland and Wales, the government offers these benefits:
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Carer’s Credit
- Statutory Sick Pay
- Housing benefit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
You can find out more about each of these benefits and whether you might be entitled to them by checking the government website for the place where you live. If you live in England Scotland or Wales, visit gov.uk/browse/benefits to learn more.
If you live in Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Jersey or Guernsey, visit your local government website and search for benefits.
Help for parents
If you’re bringing up children, you may be able to get support from the UK Government for childcare costs in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Find out more at childcarechoices.gov.uk, where you’ll find a calculator to help you understand how much help you might get.
You may also be able to get free school meals for your children and help with the cost of school clothing. Have a look at your local council website to find out more.
Help from Macmillan Cancer Support
Macmillan can help with all aspects of your finances, and give you personalised support and guidance to help you plan your budget, manage your money and understand your personal finance options. They also provide grants and have specialist welfare rights and energy advice teams who can offer further support.
Find out more on their website: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/financial-and-work/financial-guidance-help-line
