Claiming disability benefits

Hi I had cancer 2 tumours on the brain and battled it in hospital for 9 months with radio therapy. I’m now 38 and suffering the side effects of severe migraines on a daily basis. I have been in hospital 3 times since January with this condition. I’m normally a hard worker service engineer covering all of the uk in the medical equipment industry. But it’s got to the stage now where I’ve had my driving license revoked and unable to function properly on a daily basis. I feel I’m now unable to work and support my family anymore. Who do I go to for help please.? Many thanks Sean

  • Hi Sean and thank you for your post.

     I'm sorry to read about your situation.  I appreciate this is a difficult time for you.

    As nurses, benefit advice is not our area of expertise. We usually recommend people contact Macmillan Cancer Support as they have benefit advisers on their helpline. They can  do a benefits check and go through what you may be able to claim for. Their helpline number is 0808 808 0000.

    You could also contact your local Citizens advice who offer benefit advice. Citizen’s advice have paired up with the the Brain Tumour Charity in order to give specialist advice to those affected by a brain tumours.  

    You may find it helpful to look on a website called Turn2us as they help people gain access to benefits and charitable grants.

    If you live near a Maggies Centre then they often have a benefits advisor and you may be able to chat to them. Also, some hospitals have a Cancer Information Centre or Macmillan Centre where they may also have benefits advisors.

    The organisation Step Change  can also help people who have financial difficulties.

    I hope this information helps. 

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards

    Tina