Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK, affecting thousands of individuals each year. The journey of battling breast cancer is not just physically and emotionally taxing but can also impose significant financial burdens. These financial strains can arise from loss of income, additional medical expenses, travel costs for treatment, and other associated costs. However, the UK offers a range of financial support and benefits to help alleviate these pressures for those diagnosed with breast cancer. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of the various forms of financial assistance available, helping patients and their families navigate this challenging time with more confidence and security.
State Benefits
The UK government provides several state benefits to help individuals with cancer cope with the financial challenges that come with the illness. These benefits are means-tested, and eligibility depends on factors like income, savings, and the severity of the condition.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP): PIP is available to people aged 16 to 64 who have long-term health conditions or disabilities, including cancer. It helps cover the extra costs associated with being sick or disabled. PIP is divided into two components: daily living and mobility, with each component providing a different level of financial support depending on the severity of the condition.
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): If you’re unable to work due to your illness, ESA may be an essential source of income. ESA provides financial support to those who cannot work and helps them gradually return to work if possible. It is available to employed, self-employed, and unemployed individuals.
Universal Credit: This is a benefit for people who are on a low income or out of work. It is gradually replacing several other benefits like Income Support, Housing Benefit, and Working Tax Credit. If you are undergoing treatment and unable to work, Universal Credit can provide some financial relief.
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): If you are employed and need to take time off work due to breast cancer, you may be entitled to SSP. Employers pay SSP for up to 28 weeks if you are unable to work because of your illness.
Attendance Allowance: This benefit is for individuals over the State Pension age who need help with personal care due to a physical or mental disability, including cancer.
Charitable Grants and Support
Several charities in the UK provide financial grants and other forms of support specifically for cancer patients. These grants can help with a variety of expenses, from household bills to travel costs associated with treatment.
Macmillan Cancer Support: Macmillan offers small, one-off grants to help people with cancer meet the additional costs that cancer can cause. These grants are designed to cover things like heating bills, clothing, or even a short break. Macmillan also provides a wealth of information and support on their website and through their helpline.
Breast Cancer Now: This charity provides practical support and information, including a dedicated helpline and support groups. While they do not provide direct financial grants, they can guide patients to other sources of financial help and benefits.
Maggie’s Centres: Maggie’s offers free practical, emotional, and social support to people with cancer and their families. They provide advice on benefits and other financial support, alongside their range of other services.
The Pink Ribbon Foundation: Although primarily focused on funding research, the Pink Ribbon Foundation also provides grants to individuals who are struggling financially due to breast cancer.
Turn2us: This charity helps people in financial hardship gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants, and support services. Their online benefits calculator and grant search tools can be particularly useful.
Help with Travel and Treatment Costs
Traveling to and from treatment centers can be costly, especially if the patient lives far from the hospital or needs frequent visits. Fortunately, there are several ways to mitigate these costs.
NHS Travel Expenses Scheme (HTCS): If you’re on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you may be eligible for reimbursement of travel costs to and from NHS appointments. This scheme covers the cost of public transport or car travel, including parking charges.
Blue Badge Scheme: Patients who have mobility issues due to their illness may qualify for a Blue Badge, which allows them to park closer to their destination. This can be especially helpful when attending hospital appointments.
Council Tax Reduction: Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for a reduction in your council tax. This can apply if your income has decreased due to illness or if your home has been adapted to meet your needs as a cancer patient.
Support for Families and Caregivers
The financial impact of breast cancer often extends to family members, particularly those who take on caregiving roles. There are specific benefits and support systems in place for carers.
Carer’s Allowance: If you are caring for someone with cancer for at least 35 hours a week, you might be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. This benefit can provide a small amount of financial support, although it may affect other benefits the carer or the person they care for is receiving.
Carer’s Credit: If you are not eligible for Carer’s Allowance, you might still be entitled to Carer’s Credit, which helps you maintain your National Insurance contributions while you’re caring for someone.
Flexible Working and Statutory Rights: Caregivers who are employed have the right to request flexible working arrangements. Additionally, they are entitled to time off for dependents in emergencies, which can be vital when dealing with a sudden deterioration in the patient’s condition.
Financial Planning and Advice
Breast cancer patients and their families can benefit significantly from professional financial advice, particularly when it comes to managing debt, budgeting, and understanding entitlements.
Macmillan Financial Guidance Service: This service provides free, confidential financial guidance to people affected by cancer. Their team of specialists can help with issues like mortgages, pensions, insurance, and dealing with debt.
Citizens Advice: The Citizens Advice Bureau can provide free advice on a range of financial issues, including benefits, debt, and employment rights. They have trained advisors who understand the specific needs of those dealing with long-term illnesses like cancer.
Cancer-specific Financial Advisors: Some financial advisors specialize in working with cancer patients. They can provide tailored advice on managing finances during illness, including the implications of accessing life insurance, critical illness cover, and pensions.
Conclusion
Facing breast cancer is a daunting challenge, and the financial implications can add an additional layer of stress. However, the UK offers a robust network of financial support and benefits designed to help alleviate these burdens. From state benefits and charitable grants to specialized financial advice, there are numerous resources available to assist breast cancer patients and their families.
It is essential for patients and caregivers to explore all available options and seek advice tailored to their unique situation. Organizations like Macmillan, Maggie’s, and Citizens Advice can provide invaluable guidance, ensuring that no one has to face the financial challenges of breast cancer alone. By taking advantage of these resources, patients can focus more on their health and well-being, knowing that there is support available to help them through this difficult time.