Financial support

I was found with cancer in February 2025 am a retired Health Care Assistant and my state pension in under £700/month I don't get any benefits and my rent is £520/m. Been in the hospital for three months without any piece work. I am struggling financially. 

How can I get help?

  • Hi Smbwana

    Get in touch with the McMillan nurse assigned to you at the hospital. They will be able to advise you on getting help with benefits. Mcmillan kindly offered me a one off grant non means tested. I didnt accept it as I had some savings. They may even assist you to apply for things like rent and coucil tax reductions. You may also get pension credit.

    Ed

  • Hello Smbwana and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and I can understand how tough this must be for you having gone through treatment.

    As a charity all our money goes on research and clinical trials.

    We do have a page on our website about what benefits you may be able to claim

    I would do what Farmer Ed suggests and talk to your Macmillan nurse.

    You could also speak to Macmillan. They have a benefits adviser and they may be able to advise you on what benefits you may be entitled to.

    There is a charity called Turn to Us and they can sometimes give grants if people are struggling.

    I am not sure if your hospital is attached to a Maggie's. They also have financial advisers. If you haven't got a Maggie's near you then they do offer support on line.

    Another useful organisation is Citizens Advice. They have trained volunteers that should hopefully tell you if there are any benefits that you are able to receive.

    I do hope that some of these links may be helpful.

    If you would like to ring and chat through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to give us a call.

    The number to ring is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Thank you very much for your response and advice 

    I will do so