The NHS will cover all of your treatment costs (unless you’re receiving private care), but cancer can still make life difficult financially. You or your parents might earn less if you have to work less or reduce your hours. And there are lots of additional costs you might suddenly need to cover – from hospital parking to heating if you’re spending more time indoors. The good news it there’s lots of help available if you and your family are struggling.
-
You might qualify for various types of financial support. These organisations can all help you get up-to-date information.
Cancer Research UK
Citizens Advice
CLIC Sargent
Macmillan
Gov.uk
-
If you have cancer treatment a long way from home, it often means you need to make long journeys and pay for overnight stays for you and your family.
It’s sometimes possible to arrange temporary accommodation if this is creating problems for you – for example in a CLIC Sargent Home from Home close to specialist centres. Your social worker will be able to let you know if this is an option.
If you’re staying at home but need changes to be made during treatment, help is available for that too. Speak to your medical team to find out your options.
-
If you need to spend a lot of time in hospital, the costs can mount up quickly – at a time when you and your family already have plenty on your plate.
Most hospitals offer parking permits to patients who are receiving regular or lengthy treatments. Hospital staff will be able to tell you more.
-
The Blue Badge scheme can be helpful if you have severe mobility problems and find it difficult to use public transport. With a blue badge in your car, you’re able to park closer than normal to public places you need to visit.
Apply for a Blue Badge
-
It probably isn’t something you’ve given much thought to, but some people over 18 find it reassuring to write a Will. It’s a simple way to explain what you want to happen after your death, covering your possessions, what you want to happen to your children (if you have any) and any details about your funeral.