How You Can Make Savings
Macmillan Cancer Support Finance Expert, Emma Cross, shares her advice…
ACCESS FREE PRESCRIPTIONS Anyone who has had a cancer diagnosis can get all their prescriptions free of charge. Fill out an exemption certificate, which lasts for five years, and get your GP or hospital doctor to counter sign it.
HAVE TRAVEL COSTS REINBURSED Travelling back and forth to appointments can be expensive. If you have a low weekly income and are on some benefits, you may be able to get some of your travel costs reimbursed. Bring your medical exemption certificate or proof of your benefits entitlement to hospital.
CALL YOUR ENERGY SUPPLIER Tell them about your cancer diagnosis and you may be entitled to a reduction in your bill called a “Warm Home discount”. If you’re an nPower customer, you may be eligible for a special tariff and you could get assistance with arrears, for example.
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AUTHORITY FOR A DISABLED PERSON’S PASS If you have difficulty with walking, you may qualify for a disabled person’s pass for free travel on buses. Contact your local authority for a claim form and ask a benefits adviser for help.
APPLY FOR A GRANT You may be eligible for a Macmillan grant, a small one-off payment which can be used toward financial expenses incurred because of cancer. You may also be able to get help from your local council for expenses such as adapting your home.
CHECK PARKING COSTS Ask your hospital if they offer free or reduced parking permits before treatment. If you aren’t entitled to that, you may qualify for a blue badge so you can park close if you have mobility problems.