Triple threat to cancer sufferers

The cost of living crisis is affecting us all. However, for low income cancer patients already struggling with higher bills and expenses due to their diagnosis, as well as the ongoing impact of the Covid pandemic, it’s clear that people with cancer are facing a triple threat of challenges in 2022.

That’s why we are urging people living with cancer across Kent to seek our support. In 2021, Macmillan gave £248,500 in grants to local cancer patients, many of whom couldn’t afford to pay for essentials such as heating bills. Something that will only get tougher this year, with energy prices rocketing by as much as 50% in April, and further increases expected in October.

Macmillan continues to go all out to support people with cancer. You can apply for a oneoff, means tested grant by talking to the Macmillan Welfare Rights Team on our Macmillan Support Line (0808 808 00 00). We’re open seven days a week, 8am to 8pm. Or, speak to your Macmillan nurse, or other healthcare professional, who can help you apply for a Macmillan grant.

You can also access information and advice on welfare benefits, housing costs and employment rights via our website: www. macmillan.org.uk , 24/7. And you can find local support by visiting the “in your area” section of the Macmillan website.

We are here for everyone with cancer. So, if you are someone in need of our support, we will do whatever it takes to ensure you get the practical advice and help that can make life with cancer not simply about survival.

Emma Tingley

Macmillan head of partnerships